gas chromatography

noun

: chromatography in which the sample mixture is vaporized and injected into a stream of carrier gas (such as nitrogen or helium) moving through a column containing a stationary phase composed of a liquid or particulate solid and is separated into its component compounds according to their affinity for the stationary phase

gas chromatographic adjective

Examples of gas chromatography in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry to isolate compounds in the mixture, the researchers identified the presence of succinic and pyruvic acids. —Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 Apr. 2025

The researchers used advanced techniques, including gas chromatography and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, to determine what the tunic was made from. —Marco Rubio, Newsweek, 1 Nov. 2024

In order to compare these samples, Mary used a technique called gas chromatography. —Sarah Wyman, Scientific American, 27 June 2024

Science can help fill in the gaps, particularly given the expanding array of methods for conducting biomolecular analysis, including various forms of gas chromatography. —Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 6 Sep. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1952, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for gas chromatography

• arteriography
• autobiography
• biogeography
• cholangiography
• cinematography
• historiography
• photolithography
• photomicrography
• ultrasonography
• ventriculography
• angiocardiography
• electrocardiography

Medical Definition

gas chromatography

noun

: chromatography in which the sample mixture is vaporized and injected into a stream of carrier gas (as nitrogen or helium) moving through a column containing a stationary phase composed of a liquid or a particulate solid and is separated into its component compounds according to the affinity of the compounds for the stationary phase

—abbreviation GC compare column chromatography, gas-liquid chromatography, thin-layer chromatography

gas chromatographic adjective