Distillation Flashcards
(11 cards)
What is simple distillation?
A method used to separate a liquid from a mixture based on differences in boiling points.
When is simple distillation used?
When the difference in boiling points between the substances is large (typically > 25°C).
What happens during simple distillation?
The mixture is heated.
The liquid with the lowest boiling point evaporates.
It is then cooled and condensed back into a liquid using a condenser.
What is the role of the Liebig condenser in distillation?
It cools the vaporized liquid so it condenses back into a liquid that can be collected.
Why does water enter the condenser from the bottom?
To push out air and avoid air pockets.
To ensure full contact between the water and the tube.
This improves heat transfer and cooling efficiency.
What is counter-current flow and why is it used?
Water flows in the opposite direction to the vapor.
Maintains a larger temperature difference.
Increases heat transfer efficiency.
What is fractional distillation?
A method used to separate liquids with similar boiling points using a fractional column.
What is inside the fractional distillation column?
Glass beads or plates to increase surface area for condensation and evaporation.
How does the temperature vary in a fractional distillation column?
The bottom is hotter.
The top is cooler.
How are substances separated in fractional distillation?
Substances with lower boiling points evaporate first and rise to the top.
Substances with higher boiling points condense lower down in the column.
What is the boiling point of ethanol?
78.37°C.
