distribution isotherm

in chromatography
https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.DT06932
The equilibrium relation between the concentration of a sample component in the
stationary phase
cS, and in the
mobile phase
cM, expressed as a function cS=f(cM). In some versions of
chromatography
, a distribution isotherm can be seen as a
partition isotherm
, an
adsorption isotherm
, or a combination of these, depending on the mechanism of separation.
Note:
The relation can be influenced also by concentrations of other sample components. cS and cM are usually expressed per unit volume of the phase; cS may also be expressed per mass of the dry solid phase or per unit surface area.
Source:
PAC, 1996, 68, 1591. (Nomenclature for non-linear chromatography (IUPAC Recommendations 1996)) on page 1592 [Terms] [Paper]
This definition supersedes an earlier definition of distribution isotherm.