FS 2014 Semester 2 Practical 2

Practical 2 : Separation of photosynthetic pigments by chromatography

AIMS:
To be introduced to the technique of paper chromatography.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:
After completing this experiment, you should be able to:
i. set up an experiment of paper chromatography
ii. calculate the Rf value of the photosynthetic pigments
iii. identify photosynthetic pigments based on the Rf values

INTRODUCTION:

APPARATUS AND MATERIALS:

 Chromatography paper  Acetone
 Boiling tube, with cork bung  Solvent (petroleum ether / acetone
 Scissors 9:1)
 Pin  Parafilm
 Mortar and pestle

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SAFETY INFORMATION:

CHEMICAL USED SAFETY INFORMATION

Acetone Hazardous in case of skin contact (irritant), of eye contact (irritant), of
ingestion, of inhalation. Slightly hazardous in case of skin contact
(permeator).
Petroleum ether / Extremely flammable. Harmful by inhalation and if swallowed, may
acetone 9:1 cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Irritating to eyes, respiratory system
and skin. Vapours may cause drowsiness and dizziness.

PROCEDURE:

Reminder: Students are to bring two types of leaves for the lab session.

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APPENDIX:

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Practical 1 : Separation of photosynthetic pigments by chromatography

Answer sheet

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RESULTS:
1) Chromatography paper:

(2 marks)

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2) Complete the table below: (you do not need to fill up all the rows, you may add more
rows if necessary)

Rf value calculated Photosynthetic pigment identified

1
2
3
4
5

(6 marks)

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DISCUSSIONS:

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Marking Sheet for Practical 1

(These pages must be printed out on ONLY one side of sheets of paper)

NAME :

STUDENT ID :

LAB DEMONSTRATOR :

Question Marks Marks

Section Comments
No. Allocated Awarded

Results 1 2

2 3

Discussion 1

Total
Marks

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