RF value

The RF (Retention Factor) value is a measurement used in chromatography to identify substances. It indicates how far a compound travels on a chromatography strip or plate compared to the solvent front. Specifically, RF is calculated by dividing the distance the substance moves by the distance the solvent front moves. Values range from 0 to 1, with higher numbers meaning the compound traveled further. This helps scientists compare and identify substances based on how they interact with the chromatography medium and solvent, providing a quick way to analyze complex mixtures of chemicals.