Chromatography

Chromatography - analyzing the ink from different pens, using paper chromatography

• Investigators analyze ink on the note left at the scene of a crime to help figure out what kind of pen was used.

• This is a method for analyzing complex mixtures by separating them into the chemicals from which they are made.

• Chromatography is also used to separate and identify all sorts of substances in investigative work.

• Permanent markers do not change as they are water insoluble

• Non permanent markers change in water as they are water soluble

Steps for chromatography

1. Pour water into a cup

2. Suspend note in water (not letting the ink touch the water)

3. Remove note from water and let dry

4. Compare note to samples collected from suspects