
chromatogram
A chromatogram is a visual output, usually a graph or a series of bands, produced by a technique called chromatography. This process separates mixtures into their individual components based on how they move through a medium, like a liquid or solid. Each substance travels at a different speed, allowing scientists to identify and quantify the components of a sample, such as pollutants in water or ingredients in food. The resulting chromatogram displays peaks or spots that represent each separated component, making it a valuable tool in fields like chemistry, biology, and forensics.