An illustration of various fractional distillation devices. fractional distillation must be used in order to separate the components well by repeated vaporization-condensation cycles within a packed fractionating column. This separation, by successive distillations, is also referred to as rectification.

Fractional Distillation

An illustration of various fractional distillation devices. fractional distillation must be used in…

"Figure 5 shows a form of the apparatus for separating a liquid from another of different boiling point, such as alcohol and water. The mixture is poured into retort B, and then heated to about 90 degrees C, which is above the boiling point of alcohol but below that of water. The vaporized alcohol escapes through A to the worm D. This is a simple helical coil of pipe surrounded by cold water, and serving to condense the vapor, which runs out as a liquid at the bottom. The cooling water is constantly changed by the supplying fresh cold water at the bottom and drawing off the heated water from the top." Louis Derr, 1911

A Still Showing the Separation of a Liquid from a Solid

"Figure 5 shows a form of the apparatus for separating a liquid from another of different boiling point,…