Method map
How separation becomes evidence.
Start with the mechanism, then follow the sample, interface, detector, and interpretation choices that shape the result.
Six connected surfaces
No method exists alone.
These pages are designed as a connected analytical workflow rather than independent textbook chapters. Each provides a concise principle, useful strengths, limitations, and links into current literature.
Capillary electrophoresis
An electric field separates dissolved species in a narrow capillary through differences in electrophoretic mobility; electroosmotic flow may also move the solution.
Open methodLiquid chromatography
A liquid mobile phase carries sample components through a stationary phase; differences in retention create the separation measured by an attached detector.
Open methodGas chromatography
A carrier gas transports volatile compounds through a temperature-controlled column, where vapor pressure and stationary-phase interactions govern retention.
Open methodMicrofluidic separations
Microfluidic platforms control small fluid volumes and can place preparation, injection, separation, and detection within one engineered network.
Open methodSampling and sample preparation
Collection, preservation, extraction, cleanup, and preconcentration determine which part of a real sample ever reaches the separation system.
Open methodDetection and coupled methods
The detector determines which separated zones become observable; interfaces to spectroscopy, conductivity, fluorescence, electrochemistry, or mass spectrometry shape the whole method.
Open method