Macroscale chromatography in the classroom

This paper describes how a simple macroscopic working model can be constructed to demonstrate the operation of chromatography in the classroom. Since the resources for construction may vary from school to school, the effect of varying 'molecular size'and packing parameter on the operation of the'chromatography column'have been investigated to provide guidance for teachers in the selection of materials to construct your own macroscopic chromatography column. Macroscopic working models help students make the link between the macroscopic observables e.g. retention time) and the conceptual explanations of the phenomenon at the microscopic level, thus helping to overcome most of the confusion and misconceptions associated with chromatography.The column is effective because it can engage kineastic, visual and auditory learning modes.The working model presented here separates components on the basis of size; other models, which separate by shape, mass, type of material, etc, are also mentioned.