A. Paper chromatography and gas chromatography are both routinely used for qualitative analysis only.

B. Paper chromatography is usually considered to be quantitative only, while gas chromatography can be qualitative or quantitative.

C. Paper chromatography is usually considered to be qualitative only, while gas chromatography can be qualitative or quantitative.

D. Paper chromatography and gas chromatography are both routinely used for quantitative analysis only.

Paper chromatography is typically used for qualitative analysis, while gas chromatography serves both qualitative and quantitative purposes routinely. The correct answer is option C.

Question Breakdown

This MCQ tests the practical applications of chromatography techniques in analytical biochemistry, relevant for GATE Life Sciences exams focusing on separation methods.

Option Analysis

• A. Paper chromatography and gas chromatography are both routinely used for qualitative analysis only: Incorrect. GC is widely quantitative via peak area integration.

• B. Paper chromatography is usually considered to be quantitative only, while gas chromatography can be qualitative or quantitative: Incorrect. Paper chromatography is primarily qualitative (identification via Rf values), though limited quantitative use exists.

• C. Paper chromatography is usually considered to be qualitative only, while gas chromatography can be qualitative or quantitative: Correct. Paper excels in simple identification; GC handles both with high precision detectors.

• D. Paper chromatography and gas chromatography are both routinely used for quantitative analysis only: Incorrect. Paper is not routinely quantitative due to lower accuracy.

Introduction
Paper chromatography is usually considered qualitative only for identifying components via Rf values, while gas chromatography can be qualitative or quantitative for precise measurements. This distinction drives their lab applications in biochemistry and competitive exams like GATE Life Sciences.

Key Differences

Paper chromatography uses capillary action on cellulose paper for polar compound separation—ideal for quick ID of amino acids, inks, or pigments.

GC vaporizes samples through a column with FID/MS detectors, enabling both compound identification (qualitative) and concentration calculation (quantitative via calibration curves).

Applications Comparison

Used in forensics, pharma purity checks, and food analysis.