Fractional Distillation

Principle of Fractional Distillation:

• Fractional distillation separates components of a mixture with close boiling points by using a fractionating column to achieve repeated condensation and vaporization cycles.

Methodology of Fractional Distillation:

1. Setup: Similar to simple distillation but includes a fractionating column between the distillation flask and the condenser.
2. Heating: The mixture is heated, and vapours rise through the fractionating column.
3. Fractionation: As vapours ascend, they repeatedly condense and vaporize on the packing material within the column, enriching the vapor in the more volatile component.
4. Condensation and Collection: The vapor eventually reaches the condenser, condenses, and is collected as the distillate.

Uses:

• Separation of liquid mixtures like ethanol and water.
• Industrial processes such as crude oil refining.
• Purification of chemicals and pharmaceuticals.

Merits:

• High separation efficiency for mixtures with close boiling points.
• Can achieve high purity of separated components.
• Suitable for both small-scale and large-scale operations.

Demerits:

• More complex setup and operation compared to simple distillation.
• Higher energy consumption due to repeated vaporization and condensation cycles.
• Potential for column flooding or pressure drop issues.

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