Thin Layer Chromatography
A chromatographic technique using a thin layer of adsorbent coated on a flat plate.
Unit
Dimensionless
In depth
A spot of sample is applied near one edge and the plate stood in solvent, which rises by capillary action and carries the components different distances. TLC is quick and cheap, so it is used constantly to monitor the progress of reactions and to check purity.
Examples in the real world
Following an organic synthesis by spotting the reaction mixture beside the starting material at intervals.