What is the main principle behind size exclusion chromatography?

The main principle behind size exclusion chromatography is separation based on the size of molecules. In this technique, a column is packed with porous beads that allow smaller molecules to enter the pores while larger molecules are excluded. Because larger molecules cannot enter the pores, they travel through the column more quickly than smaller molecules, which take longer to pass through due to their ability to enter the pores and the additional time spent within them.

This method is widely used for purifying proteins, polysaccharides, and other biomolecules based on their molecular size and is particularly effective when a range of sizes is present in a mixture. As a result, size exclusion chromatography serves as a valuable tool in biochemistry for isolating or analyzing components based on their surface dimensions.