What is the fundamental difference between theoretical plates and real plate number in chromatography?

What is the fundamental difference between theoretical plates and real plate number in chromatography?

• A. Theoretical plates are idealized equilibrium stages; real plate number is derived from observed peak width.
• B. Theoretical plates are the actual physical plates; real plate number is a theoretical construct.
• C. Theoretical plates increase with longer columns regardless of efficiency.
• D. Theoretical plates are only applicable to gas chromatography.

Answer: (A)