CHALLENGER'S LOST LESSONS - ER - NASA

66Classroom Version of Chromatography Lost LessonThe following demonstration closely replicates Christa’s experimentseen in the above video:Background:A simple technique is used toseparate colored ink pigments fromblack ink. Being soluble, the ink willdissolve in water and the mixture orsolution will then be absorbed on filterpaper. As the dissolved solvent rises onthe paper and evaporates, it leaves a trailof colors on its path.Materials:Process:1. Ordinary filter paper or papertowel (about a half inchby six inches)2. Black felt-tip pens3. Test tube(s)4. Test tube holder (rack)5. Paper clip(s)6. Cork(s) which fit the mouth of the test tube(s)* Cut the filter paper into a strip so that fits within the testtube. Next, cut the lower end of the paper strip so that itpoints toward the bottom of the test tube. (see drawingabove right) Draw a light pencil line across the paper stripwhere the point begins. Bend open a paper clip and stickone end into the cork test tube stopper. Slide the paper stripinto the clip in order to hang the strip into the test tube.Watch the video