chromatography is a feasible（ possible） method to separate the bucket of mixed paint.
Chromatography is the science which is studies the separation of molecules based on differences in their structure and/or composition
http://www.accessexcellence.org/LC/SS/chromatography_background.php
The biggest advantage of column chromatography is that it can usually be scaled to the project at hand. This is especially useful if one is trying to separate and purify a reaction mixture preparing an intermediate in a sequence of reactions. The corresponding disadvantage is the column may take a long time to properly prepare and use.
Thin layer chromatography is usually great for initial analysis and determining the conditions needed for a good separation. Many plates are commercially available and the chromatograms usually do not take a long time to develop. The main disadvantage is the very small amounts of compounds handled. These can be recovered for instrumental analysis, but seldom is there enough for further reaction.
Video on chromatography
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzp2S0e9o8s


liquid chromatography
http://www.waters.com/waters/nav.htm?cid=10048919&lset=1&locale=en_SG
gas chromatography


Paper chromatography











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