The effect of the gradient on high-performance liquid chromatographic separations has been examined from a theoretical standpoint, using computer simulations to visualize the effects of different variables. Samples to be separated by gradient elution can be classified according to their separation characteristics into three groups (referred to here as cases I, II and III). Each of these sample types responds differently to a change in gradient conditions.
Case III samples exhibit changes in band spacing when the gradient conditions are varied, and gradients composed of multiple linear segments are especially useful for controlling band spacing and resolution for such samples. The effect of different gradient conditions (starting %B, gradient steepness and gradient shape) on the separation of case III samples is examined in detail.