Silica gel plates are widely used in thin-layer chromatography (TLC) for separating and analyzing chemical compounds. They serve as a stationary phase, allowing for the separation of mixtures based on polarity and interaction with the silica surface. These plates are essential in laboratories for identifying substances, monitoring reactions, and purifying compounds. They are particularly useful in pharmaceutical research for drug development and quality control. Additionally, silica gel plates are employed in forensic science to analyze evidence and in environmental testing to detect pollutants. Their versatility and efficiency make them a fundamental tool in analytical chemistry.