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RT = Retention Time = Volume / Flow Rate
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Retention Time (RT) in chromatography is the time taken for a solute to pass through a chromatography column. It's a fundamental parameter used to identify and characterize compounds in analytical chemistry.
The calculator uses the retention time formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates how long it takes for a substance to travel through the chromatography system based on the volume of the mobile phase and the flow rate.
Details: Accurate retention time calculation is crucial for method development, compound identification, and optimizing separation conditions in various chromatography techniques including HPLC, GC, and LC-MS.
Tips: Enter volume in milliliters (mL) and flow rate in milliliters per minute (mL/min). Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: What factors affect retention time?
A: Retention time is influenced by mobile phase composition, column temperature, flow rate, column dimensions, and stationary phase properties.
Q2: How is retention time used in chromatography?
A: RT is used for compound identification, method development, quality control, and ensuring consistent separation in analytical procedures.
Q3: What is the difference between RT and t0?
A: RT is the retention time of the analyte, while t0 (void time) is the retention time of an unretained compound that doesn't interact with the stationary phase.
Q4: Can RT vary between different instruments?
A: Yes, RT can vary due to differences in column age, temperature control, pump performance, and system dead volume between instruments.
Q5: How can I improve RT reproducibility?
A: Maintain consistent mobile phase composition, control temperature precisely, use well-maintained equipment, and follow standardized operating procedures.