Distillation

Question 1

What is simple distillation used for?

Answer 1

Separating a solvent from a solution.

Question 2

How does simple distillation work?

Answer 2

Simple distillation works because the solute in the solution have a much higher boiling point than the solvent. When the solution is heated, the solvent boils and solvent vapour passes into the condenser. The vapour is cooled and condensed back to the liquid state. The solution becomes more concentrated during simple distillation because the solute stays behind.

Question 3

What is fractional distillation used for?

Answer 3

Fractional distillation is usednto separate and liquid from a mixture of missile liquids (liquids that mix completely with each other).

Question 4

How does fractional distillation work?

Answer 4

Fractional distillation works because the liquids in the mixture have different boiling points. When the mixture is heated, it boils and hot vapour rises up the fractioning column. Vapour condenses when it hits the cool surface of the column and drips back. The fraction with the lowest boiling point reaches the top of the column first and its vapour passes into the condenser. If you carry on heating, vapours from fractions with higher boiling points pass to the condenser.