Paper chromatography

1 mark · Easy

State which part of the chromatography paper you should draw the starting line on before adding the sample in a paper chromatography experiment.

Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.

Show answer

Near the bottom of the chromatography paper (about 1 cm from the bottom).

Also accept: At the bottom/near the bottom of the paper; About 1 cm from the bottom of the paper

Common mistakes: Using a pen instead of a pencil; Drawing the line too high

Show mark scheme and worked solution

Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · States that the line should be drawn near the bottom of the paper (about 1 cm from bottom).

Worked solution

The starting (pencil) line should be drawn near the bottom of the chromatography paper, about 1 cm above the lower edge, before adding the sample.