Question #7a492

1 Answer
Apr 15, 2017

You use fractional distillation for separating homogeneous mixtures of liquids.

Explanation:

Ideally, the difference in boiling points of the components should be more than 25 °C.

However, if you have an efficient fractionating column and work slowly, you can get good separation of liquids with closer boiling points.

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Fractional distillation involves the use of a fractionating column that is packed with glass beads, steel mesh, or other substances to provide a greater surface area on which the rising vapours can condense.

The vapours of the higher-boiling compound will condense and run back into the distillation flask, while those of the lower-boiling compound will make it to the distillation head and continue on to the condenser.

Once the lower-boiling component has distilled off, the temperature will rise and the higher-boiling component will distill over.