chromatogram: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “chromatogram” mean?
A visual record or chart produced by chromatography, showing the separation of components as peaks, bands, or spots.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A visual record or chart produced by chromatography, showing the separation of components as peaks, bands, or spots.
In data analysis, it can also refer to the graphical output of a chromatographic process used to identify and quantify chemical constituents in a mixture. In genetics, sometimes used to refer to the output of DNA sequencing, showing fluorescent peaks representing nucleotide bases.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or spelling. Pronunciation differs as per IPA.
Connotations
None beyond its technical meaning in either variety.
Frequency
Equally rare and confined to technical fields in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “chromatogram” in a Sentence
The chromatogram shows [COMPONENT]A chromatogram of [SAMPLE] was obtained.Compare the chromatogram with [STANDARD].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chromatogram” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The sample was chromatogrammed to check for purity. (Note: very rare, 'analysed by chromatography' is preferred)
American English
- They chromatogrammed the extract using the new protocol. (Note: very rare, 'ran a chromatogram of' is preferred)
adverb
British English
- No standard adverbial form exists.
American English
- No standard adverbial form exists.
adjective
British English
- The chromatogram data was stored digitally. (Note: 'chromatographic data' is more common)
American English
- She reviewed the chromatogram peaks carefully. (Note: 'chromatographic peaks' is more common)
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used. Might appear in reports from R&D or quality control departments in pharmaceutical or chemical industries.
Academic
Common in chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacology, and forensic science publications and lab reports.
Everyday
Not used.
Technical
Core term in analytical chemistry, molecular biology (e.g., DNA sequencing chromatograms), environmental testing, and food science.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “chromatogram”
Strong
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “chromatogram”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chromatogram”
- Misspelling as 'chromotogram' or 'chromagram'.
- Confusing 'chromatogram' (the output/data) with 'chromatograph' (the instrument).
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'to chromatogram the sample' is non-standard; use 'to run a chromatogram of the sample').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A chromatograph is the physical instrument or apparatus used to perform the separation. A chromatogram is the visual output, graph, or record produced by the chromatograph.
Yes, the trace of fluorescent peaks representing the sequence of DNA nucleotides is commonly called a sequencing chromatogram or electropherogram.
No, it is a highly specialized scientific term. Using it outside of technical contexts will likely cause confusion.
Each peak typically corresponds to a different component in the mixture. The position (retention time) helps identify it, and the area under the peak helps quantify it.
A visual record or chart produced by chromatography, showing the separation of components as peaks, bands, or spots.
Chromatogram is usually technical/scientific in register.
Chromatogram: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkrəʊmətəɡram/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkroʊmətəˌɡræm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No idioms exist for this technical term.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: CHROMA (colour) + GRAM (something written/drawn). A 'colour picture' showing the separated components of a mixture.
Conceptual Metaphor
A chromatogram is a FINGERPRINT or a MAP of a mixture, revealing its hidden composition.
Practice
Quiz
In which field would you most likely encounter the term 'chromatogram'?