The correct option is D Physical state of the pure compound
We know that,
The separation of components can be expressed in terms of retardation factor i.e., Rf value:
Rf=Distance travelled by soluteDisatance travelled by solvent
Hence, we need to fix the length of the column or TLC plate so as to measure the distance travelled by solute or solvent.
During separation, the components of the mixture move up along with the solvent to different distances depending on their degree of adsorption and separation takes place. Hence, the separation is dependent upon mobility or flow of solvent. Solubility is the property of how well a component of the mixture dissolves in the mobile phase. Higher the solubility in the mobile phase, the faster the molecule will move through the column. Hence, chromatographic separation is dependent on solubility of the compound.
Thus, in chromotography technique, the purification of a compound is independent of the physical state of the pure compound.