Theory and Conclusions

Fractional Distillation

1. Define fractional distillation with a citation. Be sure to indicate what samples are best
purified using fractional distillation. Indicate why fractional distillation is necessary as
opposed to simple dist for the mixture we have.

2. Draw the structures for ethyl acetate and butyl acetate, be sure to give a citation for
both. Indicate the functional groups and indicate intermolecular forces. Why does ethyl
acetate have a lower boiling point than butyl acetate. Which is more volatile and less
volatile.

3. Indicate the difference between head temperature and pot temperature and boiling
point elevation.

4. Discuss in detail how the fractionating column (distilling column) works to give an
efficient separation of the 2 volatile liquids – this will mean you will have to discuss in
detail – the packing material, purpose, surface area, etc. - temperature gradient (you will
want to include a picture with a citation see the lab book) – vapor and liquid composition
within the column

5. Explain theoretical plates and HETP (height equivalent theoretical plates) and how this
relates to the packing material and what the consequence is for using the packing material
to effect separation. (You may want to include a diagram with a citation)

6. Explain why you cannot get a 100% recovery of either fraction and what fraction 2 is
composed of and the purpose of collecting 3 fractions. Be sure to discuss hold up volume
and pot residue as it relates to the % recovery.

7. ETC.