Theory:
In this experiment, mixtures of volatile organic compounds will be separated and analyzed, and a
sample containing an unknown percentage of ethanol will be quantitated by GC analysis.
In GC, a liquid sample is injected into a separation column as sharp plug. The GC column is usually
coated with stationary phase of a given overall polarity. The column is contained within an oven.
The sample is vaporized to a degree and at a rate dependent on its boiling point. It is carried by an
inert gas (usually helium) through the column to a detector. The detector signals a chart recorder,
which records the response, ideally in the shape of a Gaussian peak.