Partition chromatography separates mixtures based on differences in how components partition between two immiscible liquid phases. The stationary phase is a liquid coated on a solid support, and separation occurs as the mobile phase passes through based on each component's partition coefficient. Paper partition chromatography uses the moisture in filter paper as the stationary phase, with an organic solvent or buffer as the mobile phase. Components separate based on their relative solubilities in the paper versus solvent, with their positions after development quantified using Rf values. Factors like solvent choice, paper quality, and development conditions influence separations and Rf values.