to each other with a marginal amount of error. The error may be because improper measurements were made because the solute has migrated horizontally from its original spot, giving it a smaller value then would be expected. In comparing these results with our groups results, one can see many discreprencies. First of all, the hexane samples in all three concentrations did not produce any results. The oleic acid and cholesteryl linolet had correct values matching up to the other groups results. But the triolene had a value of .57 and the triolene sample from the other group was .78, showing a difference. The major reason that the results may have been different is experimental error. While collecting samples, the column went dry at one occasion. This may have produced samples with incorrect amounts of lipid in it. The silica gel column has to be kept running with fluids at all times. Otherwise, the results will be incorrect, as our results were. V. ConclusionThe experiment served its purpose by demonstrating the characteristics of lipids. The useful techniques of adsorption chromatography on a silica gel column and analysis by thin layer chromatography proved to be useful techniques. In my opinion these techniques should be learned by anyone that wants to go in a biology/biochemistry career. This experiment also proved how important experimental technique and procedure is. A little mistake or experimental error, such as the column drying, can produce highly incorrect results. Overall, the experiment was very enjoyable and fatty acids can be concluded as a nonpolar with slight polarity substance....
