| Abstract: | Basic expressions are derived for both the retention time and the effective separation factor in serially coupled GC columns. The retention time is determined by two main parameters. The first is the fractional time spent by an unretarded solute in each column which, in turn, is determined by the relative column lengths and flow velocities through each column. The second parameter is the relative mass distribution coefficient of a particular solute in each column; a variable that can be adjusted by changing the relative temperatures of the columns. The expression for the effective separation factor relates the measured separation factor for the series combination to the separation factors on the individual columns, the fractional time spent by an unretarded peak in each column, as well as the relative values of the mass distribution coefficients of a particular solute on the different columns. |
