size exclusion chromatography (SEC)

Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) is a technique used to separate molecules based on their size. It involves passing a mixture through a special column filled with porous beads. Smaller molecules enter the pores and take longer to travel through the column, while larger molecules bypass the pores and move faster. By collecting and analyzing the output, scientists can determine the size and distribution of different molecules within a mixture. SEC is commonly used in biochemistry and materials science to analyze proteins, polymers, and other large biomolecules.