With the right medium you can separate the pigments in permanent markers. ... It is fun to see what colors the manufactures use to make many different colors. Students will enjoy this fun chemistry experiment.

Is permanent marker ink soluble?

The ink used in permanent markers does not dissolve in water, meaning the ink is water insoluble. ... Permanent marker ink, however, does dissolve in isopropyl alcohol, meaning the ink is soluble in it.

Why does chromatography not work with permanent markers?

Teacher Tip:Permanent marker and dry-erase board inks are not water soluble, so the water will not be able to dissolve its pigments to carry them up the strip.