Thin layer chromatography experiment to determine which analgesic tablets contain caffeine.
The Experiment to determine which analgesic tablets contain caffeine. Thin layer chromatography (TLC) is a technique to determine the quantity of unknown substances in a mixture. It is based on the principle that each substance has a unique molecular weight and size which determines the distance that it travels via capillary action through a stationary phase. In the case of TLC, the stationary phase is a thin, absorbent layer, applied to a glass, metal or plastic plate. A solution of many compounds - such as prepared orange peel solution - can be separated to reveal each component using this method. http://www.ehow.com/ Equipments needed: Thin layer chromatography plateLarge beakerTin foilMicropipettesRulerPencilnotebooktwo types of aspirin tablets (A and B)safety glasses to be worn at all times50/50 ethanol/ethyl ethanoate solvent for dissolving sample A and BGrinder for crushing tablet aspirin tablets A and BDistilled water for washing and paper towels for dryingUV lamp ProcessHazard risk of procedureSeverity of riskControl measures and precautionsAttain 1 TLC plates. Apiece costs about