The GATE Grind

GATE 2024 BT – Question 11

Recombinant DNA Technology and Other Tools in Biotechnology · Analytical tools: Microscopy and spectroscopy · 1 mark · Multiple choice

In adsorption chromatography, the adsorption of uncharged solute molecules onto a silica-based stationary phase is by ________.

  1. covalent bonds
  2. electrostatic interactions
  3. ionic bonds
  4. van der Waals forces

Practise this question in The GATE Grind →

Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (D) van der Waals forces

Explanation

Uncharged solutes are held on silica by weak, non-covalent forces: van der Waals interactions (and hydrogen bonds), not by ionic or covalent bonds.