Question

In gel filtration chromatography, which molecules elute first?

• A. Small molecules
• B. Highly charged molecules
• C. Hydrophobic molecules
• D. Large molecules

Hint:

In gel filtration chromatography, \[ \boxed{ \text{Large molecules} \rightarrow \text{Elute first} } \] \[ \boxed{ \text{Small molecules} \rightarrow \text{Elute later} } \] because small molecules enter the pores of the gel beads.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Recall the principle of gel filtration chromatography. Gel filtration (size-exclusion chromatography) separates molecules based on their size. The stationary phase contains porous beads.

Step 2: Identify which molecules elute first. Large molecules cannot enter the pores of the beads and therefore travel a shorter path through the column. Small molecules enter the pores and take longer to pass through. Hence, \[ \boxed{\text{Large molecules elute first}.} \] Therefore, \[ \boxed{(D)} \] is the correct answer.