Retention parameters, preferably Kovats indices, can be used to identify chromatographically separated components of mixtures, and in addition, chemical derivatives thereof. For reliable correlations of peaks, combined use of other mainly spectroscopic identification methods is necessary. There are two different methods of applying Kovats indices which are table matching and/or incremental predictions of I and ΔI values. Examples for the application of both methods are given. The derivation and the range of validity of retention increments is discussed in more detail.