What are Rf values in chromatography and why are they important?

[Salvatore_Damon]

In chromatography, the Rf (retention factor) value is the ratio of the distance traveled by the substance to the distance traveled by the solvent front. It helps identify and compare compounds, since each substance has a characteristic Rf under the same conditions.

 

[danisjohn]

Rf values (retention factor) in chromatography represent the ratio of the distance traveled by a substance to the distance traveled by the solvent. They help identify compounds by comparing known values. Rf values are important for analyzing mixtures, confirming purity, and distinguishing between different chemical substances in a sample.