In paper chromatography, why do you need an organic solvent to seperate pigments in chloroplasts?

Question

In paper chromatography, why do you need an organic solvent to seperate pigments in chloroplasts?

Answer 1

I HAVE NOT IDEA WHAT YOU ARE ASKING!

Answer 2

because cloroplasts are organic

Answer 3

Due to different solubility of pigments in organic solvent, conform with their molecular structure.

Answer 4

Hi Tmlfan,

Solvents are simply liquids used to dissolve other substances.

I don't know that it is necessary to use an organic solvent to separate the chloroplasts' pigments (although I have not tried it... might be an interesting experiment).  A nonorganic solvent such as liquid ammonia could conceivably work.  Besides the solvent itself, consideration must also be given to its concentration which also may affect the end results.

However, the solvents normally used to separate the chloroplasts' properties (and their concentrations) are time-tested for producing effective results.

I hope this helps.

Hiking Tony