Relative Retention Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines the relative retention (αR) of two solutes based on their capacity factors in chromatography.
Purpose: It helps analytical chemists compare the separation of two components in chromatographic analysis.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The ratio of capacity factors indicates how much longer one component is retained compared to another.
Details: Relative retention is crucial for method development in chromatography, helping optimize separation conditions.
Tips: Enter the capacity factors for both solutes (must be positive numbers). The calculator will compute their ratio.
Q1: What does a relative retention of 1 mean?
A: A value of 1 means both solutes have identical retention and cannot be separated.
Q2: What's a typical range for relative retention?
A: Values typically range from 1.01 to 2.0 for good separation in chromatography.
Q3: How is capacity factor different from retention time?
A: Capacity factor is adjusted retention time divided by void time, making it independent of flow rate.
Q4: Can relative retention be less than 1?
A: No, by convention the more retained component is always designated as solute 2 (αR ≥ 1).
Q5: How does this relate to selectivity factor?
A: Relative retention (αR) is essentially the selectivity factor between two components.