An analyst compared a mixture of methyl ethyl ketone, lighter fluid and gasoline to an unknown accelerant from an arson scene. Which of the following techniques would be best for the comparison of the two samples?
A) UV-Vis spectroscopy
B) TLC
C) fluorescence spectroscopy
D) gas chromatography

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Gas chromatography would be the best choice to compare the two samples as it is a highly sensitive technique used for separating and analyzing volatile compounds in a mixture. This would allow for the identification and comparison of specific compounds in both the unknown accelerant and the mixture of methyl ethyl ketone, lighter fluid, and gasoline. The other techniques listed (UV-Vis spectroscopy, TLC, and fluorescence spectroscopy) are either not ideal for separating volatile compounds or not specific enough for this type of comparison.

An Analyst Compared a Mixture of Methyl Ethyl Ketone, Lighter