Enter the retention factor (RF) and the distance traveled by the solvent into the Distance From RF Calculator. The calculator will evaluate and display the Distance of the Compound. 

Distance of Compound From RF Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the Distance of Compound From RF. 

Dc = RF * DS
  • Where Dc is the Distance of the Compound From the RF
  • RF is the retention factor (RF) 
  • DS is the distance traveled by the solvent 

To calculate the distance of a compound, multiply the retention factor by the distance traveled by the solvent.

How to Calculate Distance of Compound From RF?

The following example problems outline how to calculate the Distance of a Compound From RF.

Example Problem #1:

  1. First, determine the retention factor (RF).
    • The retention factor (RF) is given as: 2.5.
  2. Next, determine the distance traveled by the solvent.
    • The distance traveled by the solvent is provided as: 30.
  3. Finally, calculate the Distance of Compound From RF using the equation above: 

Dc = RF * DS

The values given above are inserted into the equation below and the solution is calculated:

Dc = 2.5 * 30 = 75

Example Problem #2: 

For this problem, the variables needed are provided below:

retention factor (RF) = 6.5

distance traveled by the solvent = 40

This example problem is a test of your knowledge on the subject. Use the calculator above to check your answer. 

Dc = RF * DS = ?