any of various processes of chemical analysis in which the constituents of a mixture are separated into distinct bands or spots on an adsorbent material
See chromatography in American Heritage Dictionary 4
(krōˌmə-tŏgˈrə-fē)
noun
Any of various techniques for the separation of complex mixtures that rely on the differential affinities of substances for a gas or liquid mobile medium and for a stationary adsorbing medium through which they pass, such as paper, gelatin, or magnesia.