Capacity Factor Formula:
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Definition: The capacity factor (kc') is a parameter that describes how long a compound is retained on the chromatography column relative to the mobile phase flow.
Purpose: It helps in characterizing the retention behavior of compounds in chromatographic separations.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The capacity factor is directly proportional to the partition coefficient and the ratio of stationary to mobile phase volumes.
Details: The capacity factor is crucial for:
Tips:
Q1: What is a good capacity factor value?
A: Ideal values are typically between 1 and 10. Values below 1 indicate poor retention, while values above 10 may result in excessively long retention times.
Q2: How does capacity factor relate to retention time?
A: Retention time (tR) = t0(1 + kc'), where t0 is the void time.
Q3: What affects the partition coefficient (K)?
A: K depends on the compound's chemical nature, stationary phase chemistry, mobile phase composition, and temperature.
Q4: Can capacity factor be less than 1?
A: Yes, but values < 1 indicate the compound spends more time in the mobile phase than stationary phase.
Q5: How do I measure the phase volumes?
A: Stationary phase volume is determined by column dimensions and packing density. Mobile phase volume can be measured by void time experiments.