Question

Gel permeation chromatography is based on:

• A. Size
• B. Charge
• C. Affinity
• D. Sedimentation rate

Hint:

In gel permeation chromatography, larger molecules elute first, as they cannot enter the porous gel matrix, while smaller molecules are delayed as they enter the pores.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Gel permeation chromatography (also known as size exclusion chromatography) separates molecules based on their size. Larger molecules pass through the column more quickly because they cannot enter the small pores of the gel, while smaller molecules take longer to pass through as they enter the pores.
(1) Size: This is the correct answer. Gel permeation chromatography separates molecules based on their size. Larger molecules elute first, while smaller molecules elute later.
(2) Charge: This is incorrect. Charge-based separation is used in ion exchange chromatography, not gel permeation chromatography.
(3) Affinity: This is incorrect. Affinity chromatography is based on specific binding to a ligand, not on size.
(4) Sedimentation rate: This is incorrect. Sedimentation rate is used in techniques like centrifugation, not in gel permeation chromatography.
Conclusion: The correct answer is Option 1: Size as gel permeation chromatography separates molecules based on their size.