Question

The stationary-phase liquid in the column described in Problem $27-22$ was didecylphthalate, a solvent of intermediate polarity. If a nonpolar solvent such as a silicone oil had been used instead, would the retention times for the three compounds be larger or smaller? Why?

Short answer

The time it takes to elute from the column will be shorter.

Both as a direct consequence, the retention time decreases.

Step-by-step solution

Retention time of esters.

The polar esters (methyl acetate, methyl propionate, and methyl n-butyrate) mentioned in issues $27-22$have the shortest ester group with only one carbon where oxygen atoms can still predominate, making the compound polar.

The intermediate polar solvent was employed, and the retention periods of esters were affected when it was replaced with a non-polar liquid as a stationary phase.

Step2; Find the retention time.

Esters were once thought to be compatible with liquids of intermediate polarity, however, when a non-polar liquid is utilized, only minor dispersion forces (London) are present, implying that they will not interact with the stationary phase and will elute from the column in less time

As a consequence, the retention time drops.