Explore the Paper Chromatography & Rf Values
Separate the dyes of an ink on paper, choose the solvent and measure the Rf value of each dye. Free, no signup, runs in your browser.
- Free to use
- No signup
- Nothing to install
- Runs in your browser
Illustration. Open the tool for the real thing.
See it in action
The Paper Chromatography & Rf Values with sample data entered and the result showing.
What is the Paper Chromatography & Rf Values?
Separate the dyes of an ink on paper, choose the solvent and measure the Rf value of each dye. It runs in your browser, so a change to a setting or a drag on an object shows up at once.
Forensic scientists analyse inks and drugs, food companies test colourings and doctors analyse blood and urine with chromatography.
3 steps to your result
Open the tool and follow along. Nothing to install.
What you get
A solvent rises through paper and carries the dyes with it.
Rf = distance moved by dye ÷ distance moved by solvent.
Different dyes stick to the paper by different amounts.
Separate the black pen in water.
Change to ethanol and compare the Rf values.
Drag the solvent front halfway and confirm the Rf stays the same.
Used for
Pick one to see how it fits.
Chemistry Labs learners
Students preparing for practical exams and teachers who want a virtual lab.
Try it freeTeachers
For teachers: project the Paper Chromatography & Rf Values on the board, let students predict the result, then run it together and test this: Change to ethanol and compare the Rf values. For students: change one thing at a time and write down what changes.
Try it freeHow it compares
A plain look at this tool next to the usual alternative.
| This simulation | Textbook diagram | |
|---|---|---|
| Interactive | Drag, tap and change settings | Fixed picture |
| Install | Nothing to install | Not needed |
| Cost | Free to use | Depends on the book |
Questions people ask
What is an Rf value?
The ratio of the distance travelled by a substance to the distance travelled by the solvent front. It is always between 0 and 1.
Why must the baseline be drawn in pencil?
Pencil does not dissolve in the solvent, but ink would run and spoil the result.
Is the Paper Chromatography & Rf Values free to use?
Yes. The Paper Chromatography & Rf Values is free, needs no signup or download and runs in your web browser. It is part of the Chemistry Labs group of AZRS simulations.
Does the Paper Chromatography & Rf Values work on a phone or tablet?
Yes. The Paper Chromatography & Rf Values takes touch input as well as mouse input, so you can use its 2 adjustable settings with a finger. A larger screen makes the controls and graphs easier to read.
How do I use the Paper Chromatography & Rf Values?
1. In the Paper Chromatography & Rf Values, use the controls to change Ink sample, Solvent. The simulation reacts instantly. 2. In the Paper Chromatography & Rf Values, pick an option such as Black pen, Green pen, Purple pen, Sweet colouring to switch modes or load an example. 3. In the Paper Chromatography & Rf Values, press "Start", "Reset" to start, reset or change what is happening. 4. Start with this experiment: Separate the black pen in water. Drag any glowing handle, object or slider with your mouse or finger and the Paper Chromatography & Rf Values responds in real time. 5. Change one setting at a time and watch which readout moves, then compare it with this idea: A solvent rises through paper and carries the dyes with it.
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Try the Paper Chromatography & Rf Values now
Separate the dyes of an ink on paper, choose the solvent and measure the Rf value of each. Free to use.
Try it free