Adsorption chromatography is a type of chromatography where the mobile phase is adsorbed onto the surface of a stationary solid phase. Separation occurs due to differences in how strongly components compete for active sites on the adsorbent, based on electrostatic forces. Common adsorbents include silica gel and alumina. Thin layer chromatography is a technique where the mobile phase flows over a thin layer of adsorbent on a plate, separating components by differential migration.