Use this chemistry calculator to reproduce a named relationship with explicit quantities and units for study, laboratory planning, or an independent numerical check.

Retention time (min)

Required number input.

Dead time (min)

Required number input.

Compute the capacity factor k-prime as adjusted retention time over dead time for a retained analyte. The tool evaluates the supplied inputs together and returns the named outputs below; it does not infer omitted operating conditions or change the units shown.^[1]

Capacity factor

The resulting capacity factor returned as a number.

• Chromatographic plate, resolution, retention, and peak-shape formulas summarize an observed chromatogram. They do not model detector response, integration choices, extra-column broadening, gradient elution, overload, or uncertainty in locating peak boundaries.
• Use finite inputs in the displayed units and preserve more precision than the final presentation requires. Independently verify safety-critical, financial, compliance, or production decisions.

Check units and significant figures, compare the result with limiting cases, and use measured or source-specific constants where available. Laboratory, safety, and regulatory decisions require validated methods and appropriate uncertainty analysis.

• Retention Factor k

  Compute the chromatographic retention factor k as adjusted retention time divided by the column dead time.

• Capacity Ratio k2/k1

  Compute the chromatographic capacity ratio from two adjusted capacity factors, k2 divided by k1.

• Plate Number N

  Compute the theoretical plate number N as sixteen times the square of the ratio of retention time to baseline peak width.