Partition Chromatography:
Partition chromatography is a type of chromatographic separation technique based on the principle of differential partitioning of analytes between two immiscible phases. It involves the distribution of analyte molecules between a stationary phase and a mobile phase. The stationary phase is usually a solid support coated with a liquid phase, while the mobile phase is a liquid solvent. The separation is achieved by the differential solubility of the analytes in the two phases.

Adsorption Chromatography:
Adsorption chromatography is a chromatographic separation technique based on the principle of differential adsorption of analytes on a stationary phase. It involves the interaction of analyte molecules with the surface of a solid stationary phase. The separation is achieved by the differential affinity of the analytes towards the stationary phase.

Differences:
1. Principle: Partition chromatography is based on the differential partitioning of analytes between two immiscible phases, while adsorption chromatography is based on the differential adsorption of analytes on a solid stationary phase.

2. Stationary Phase: In partition chromatography, the stationary phase is a solid support coated with a liquid phase, while in adsorption chromatography, the stationary phase is a solid support with a specific surface chemistry.

3. Separation Mechanism: In partition chromatography, the separation is achieved by the differential solubility of analytes in the two phases. Analytes with higher solubility in the mobile phase will elute faster. In adsorption chromatography, the separation is achieved by the differential adsorption of analytes on the stationary phase. Analytes with higher affinity towards the stationary phase will elute slower.

4. Elution: In partition chromatography, the elution of analytes is primarily controlled by the composition of the mobile phase. Changing the solvent composition can alter the elution order and separation efficiency. In adsorption chromatography, the elution of analytes is primarily controlled by the strength of the adsorption interaction. Elution can be achieved by changing the solvent composition or by modifying the stationary phase.

5. Applications: Partition chromatography is commonly used for the separation of nonpolar and moderately polar compounds. It is suitable for the analysis of organic compounds. Adsorption chromatography is widely used for the separation of polar and polarizable compounds. It is suitable for the analysis of inorganic and organic compounds.

In summary, partition chromatography and adsorption chromatography are two different chromatographic techniques based on different separation mechanisms. Partition chromatography relies on differential partitioning between two immiscible phases, while adsorption chromatography relies on differential adsorption on a solid stationary phase. The choice between these techniques depends on the nature of the analytes and the desired separation conditions.