Question:

TLC analysis of a mixture having 3 components (A, B, C) using silica gel as the stationary phase gave following Rf values; for A = 0.72, B = 0.48, C = 0.20.

Regarding the above observations, which one of the following statements is not correct for column chromatography of the mixture?

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Rf = distance moved by compound / distance moved by solvent; higher Rf means less adsorbed on silica, less polar, eluted first.
Updated On: Oct 31, 2026
  • A is the most non-polar component
  • C is the most soluble component in mobile phase
  • A will be eluted first
  • C is the most strongly absorbed component
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: On silica gel (polar stationary phase), a compound with larger Rf is less strongly adsorbed and less polar. Rf: A (0.72) > B (0.48) > C (0.20).
Step 2: So A is the most non-polar and is eluted first (statements 1 and 3 are correct).
Step 3: C has the lowest Rf, so it is the most strongly adsorbed on the column (statement 4 is correct) and spends the least time in the mobile phase, i.e. it is the LEAST soluble/mobile in the mobile phase.
Step 4: Statement 2 (C is most soluble in mobile phase) is therefore not correct.
Answer: (B) C is the most soluble component in mobile phase
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