Paper chromatography uses sheets of paper as the absorbent stationary phase, acetone is commonly used for the mobile phase. Some of the pigments dissolve quicker than others, which causes them to move up the paper through capillary action into different areas. This separation allows the different pigments to be identified while on the paper through color identification or by measuring absorbance with a spectrophotometer. Green spinach leaves are perfect specimens for chromatography. Spinach leaves contain chlorophyll as well as other pigments which are necessary in photosynthesis.
Chlorophyll b is also present due to it's prevalence in plants.
A carotenoid of some color is also present as an accessory pigment. A demonstration of chromatography with spinach leaves. Inc. Pagewise makes no representations about the content published on this site. Pagewise hereby disclaims all warranties and conditions with regard to this information, and user agrees that all such use is at its own risk.