Enter the distance traveled by the solute and the distance traveled by the solvent into the calculator to determine the RF value. This calculator can evaluate any of the variables in the formula below if the other values are known.

## RF Value Formula

The following formula is used to calculate a RF Value.

Rf = DSU / DSV
• Where Rf is the retention factor
• DSU is the distance traveled by the solute
• DSV is the distance traveled by the solvent

To calculate the retention factor (rf value), divide the distance traveled by the solute by the distance traveled by the solvent.

## RF Value Definition

An RF value is a ratio of the distance of travel of a solute compared to a solvent.

## RF Value Example

How to calculate an RF value?

1. First, determine the distance of the solute.

Determine the distance travelled by the solute.

2. Next, determine the distance of the solvent.

Determine the distance travelled by the solvent.

3. Finally, calculate RF value.

Calculate RF value using the formula above.

## FAQ

What is an Rf value?

Rf value stands for retention factor. It is a ratio of the distance of travel of a solute compared to a solvent.

What is Rf value used for?

Rf values are used to compare the distance of particles traveling within a solution that can then be used to identify the components of the solution based on the results.