Describe paper chromatography activity to observe the colors present in a marker ink.

Question

Describe paper chromatography activity to observe the colours present in a marker ink. 

(OR) 

How can you perform chromatography activity in your laboratory.

Answer 1

Aim : 

Separating the components of ink using paper chromatography. 

Materials required : 

Beaker, rectangular shaped filter papers, black marker (non-permanent), water, pencil and cello tape.

Procedure: 

1.  Draw a thick line just above the bottom of the filter paper using the marker. 
2.  Pour some water into the beaker. 
3.  Hang the paper strip with help of a pencil and tape in such a way that it should just touch the surface of water. 
4.  Make sure that the ink line or mark does not touch the water.
5.  Allow the water to move up the paper for 5 minutes and then remove the strip from water. 
6.  Let it dry. 
7.  Repeat the process with green marker, a permanent marker, etc. 

Observations : 

1.  When black marker is used, we observe different colors like red, green, violet, black, etc. on the filter paper after drying. 
2.  When green marker is used, we observe yellow, blue, green colors on the filter paper.
3.  When permanent marker is used, we cannot find any change in the mark.