How do forensic chemists utilize chromatography?

Forensic chemists utilize chromatography primarily to separate mixtures so they can analyze the individual components within those mixtures. This technique is integral in forensic analysis as it enables the identification and quantification of substances found at crime scenes, such as drugs, poisons, and other chemical residues.

By leveraging various types of chromatography, such as gas chromatography (GC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), forensic chemists can effectively separate complex mixtures. The separation is based on the different affinities of the components to the stationary phase and the mobile phase used in the chromatography process. Once separated, the components can be analyzed further to match substances to samples collected during investigations or to determine their chemical identities.

Other options do not directly relate to the primary functions of chromatography. For instance, decoding DNA sequences involves techniques such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and gel electrophoresis, whereas synthesizing new chemical compounds involves synthetic chemistry methods rather than separation techniques. Enhancing image quality pertains more to forensic photography or imaging techniques rather than chemical analysis.