Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Analytical separation techniques are selected based on the volatility and thermal stability of the target chemical compounds.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Non-Volatile/Heat-Sensitive Compounds: These cannot be easily vaporized without chemical decomposition.
Therefore, Gas Chromatography (GC) and distillation methods cannot be used.
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is the premier analytical technique used to separate and identify non-volatile compounds (such as capsaicin in chillies, curcumin in turmeric, and piperine in black pepper) dissolved in a liquid mobile phase.
- Volatile Compounds: Essential oils and aromatic terpenes are volatile and are separated/analyzed using Gas Chromatography (GC) or isolated via steam distillation.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct method is High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), which corresponds to option (A).