How does column chromatography differ from planar chromatography?

In chromatography, the primary difference between column and planar geometries lies in the physical arrangement of the stationary phase and how the separation is observed.1

Column Chromatography

In column chromatography, the stationary phase is packed into a tube or coated onto the inner walls of a capillary. The mobile phase flows through this column, and separation occurs over time at a fixed location as components are eluted from the bottom. Because the mobile phase is continuously added, this method is highly efficient and allows for the collection of separated components as they exit the system.213

Planar Chromatography

In planar chromatography, such as thin-layer chromatography or paper chromatography, the stationary phase is configured as a flat, two-dimensional sheet. The mobile phase moves through the stationary phase via capillary action. Unlike column chromatography, separations in planar geometry occur in space after a fixed time period, with the components appearing as distinct spots on the plane. While planar methods are often inexpensive and rapid, they are generally less sensitive and efficient than column chromatography.423