Distillation Techniques

Distillation
➢Theory
• What is distillation used for?
• For what type of compounds?
• What is the basic principle?
➢Experiment
• Procedure
• Equipment

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Distillation - Theory
• Distillation is a technique used to separate or purify liquids
based on boiling points.

1. Simple distillation
Simple distillation
2. Fractional distillation
3. Vacuum distillation
4. Steam distillation

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1. Simple distillation - Theory
Simple distillation can be used when
• Two components have very different boiling points
Or
• One component is at fairly small amount

small difference large difference

in bp in bp
4
1. Simple distillation - process

• The heated liquid vaporizes and

rises upward, past the thermometer
into the condenser.
• The vapor is condensed into liquid
and collected in the receiving flask.

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1. Simple distillation apparatus
Thermometer

Boiling
stones

Distillate

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1. Simple distillation apparatus

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1. Simple distillation apparatus

Thermometer

Thermometer adapter
Water out
Water in
Distilling head

Distilling flask Condenser

Hot plate Receiving flask

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2. Fractional distillation
Fractional distillation can be used when
• Difference in boiling points is not large
Or
• Highly pure compound is needed

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2. Fractional distillation apparatus

Fractional distillation

Simple distillation Fractionating

column
(Vigreux
column)

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2. Fractional distillation apparatus

Fractionating
column
Fractionating
column

Graduated
cylinder

Ring stand 12
2. Fractional distillation apparatus
Many vaporization-condensation cycles
→ better separation

Fractionating
column

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Explain the process of
separating acetone (bp
56 °C) and toluene (bp
110 °C)

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