Question

Which of the following cannot be done to reduce ripple in High-pressure liquid chromatography?

• A. Using bellows
• B. Using restrictors
• C. Using long nylon tube between pump and column
• D. Avoiding the use of solvent pump

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding ripple in High-pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). - Ripple refers to pressure fluctuations caused by the pulsatile nature of reciprocating pumps used in HPLC. - Reducing ripple ensures consistent flow rate and better reproducibility of chromatographic results.

Step 2: Techniques to reduce ripple. - (A) Using bellows: Bellows are used in damping systems to minimize pressure fluctuations. - (B) Using restrictors: Restrictors help in smoothing flow variations by reducing pulsations. - (C) Using long nylon tube between pump and column: This can act as a pulse dampener, helping to stabilize pressure.

Step 3: Explanation of the incorrect option. - (D) Avoiding the use of solvent pump: This is incorrect because a solvent pump is essential for HPLC operation. - Without a solvent pump, liquid chromatography cannot function, making this an impractical solution.

Step 4: Selecting the correct option. Since avoiding the use of a solvent pump is not a feasible method for reducing ripple, the correct answer is (D) Avoiding the use of solvent pump.