Peak broadening h of an inert sample and the permeability K of regular and irregular packed columns as a function of the carrier velocity u is determined experimentally. The columns are packed with glass beads. The unusual shapes of these curves are discussed assuming a “streamline” flow pattern in regular packed columns if Re >10. This effect is to be observed in irregular packed columns at velocities of approximately one centimeter per second as a decrease in h with increasing u, and a possible explanation is proposed. In columns packed with glass beads coated with a thin porous layer of alumina h vs u and K vs u curves are determined for inert and retained substances. In such columns the capacity ratio k′ is a function of the velocity. The influence of the surface area of the solid stationary phase on the capacity raito is discussed.