Simple Glowmatography: Chromatographic Separation of Glow-Stick Dyes Using Chalk

An experiment is described that uses easily obtained materials (glow sticks, chalk, and acetone or alcohol) to separate the dyes contained in glow sticks that actively emit chemiluminescent light. The experiment is very easy to carry out, making it amenable for students to perform in laboratory or outreach settings. The separation occurs fast enough that the experiment can be conducted as an in-class demonstration.