What colors go into making the color black? Use chromatography to reveal individual color pigments in each colored marker.

Chromatography is traditionally used to separate mixtures. In this experiment, use chromatography to separate pigments in colored markers.

Procedure

Color a circle on a coffee filter. Leave the center of the coffee filter blank. Fold the coffee filter in half and then in half again. Roll the coffee filter into a cone.

Dip the end of the coffee filter (which was the center of the filter when it was unfolded) into a glass of water. Be sure not to submerge the ink. Instead, let the water absorb into the filter. Hold the filter in the water for 30-60 seconds.

Remove the filter from the water, unfold, and let it dry on a paper towel.

Observe the different pigments on the filter as it dries.

• What colors do you see?

• Which colors traveled the furthest from the original circle?

Make Predictions

Prior to experimenting with each color, ask yourself what color pigments you think exist in each colored marker. Document your predictions, and then compare those predictions with your observations at the end.

Combine Art and Science

Once you experiment with each colored marker, get creative! Add multiple colors to a single filter and create a variety of patterns and designs on the coffee filter. Your end result is one part science and one part art.