What is fractional distillation used for in industry? Explain the molecular basis behind it.

Separating different sized hydrocarbons (from crude oil)Different length hydrocarbons have different strength VDW forces between their moleculesTherefore longer length hydrocarbons have stronger VDW forces between their moleculesTherefore longer hydrocarbons have higher boiling pointsAllows hydrocarbons to be separated based on boiling point; different length hydrocarbons will condense at different temperature fractions, separating them from one another

NG
Answered by Nick G. Chemistry tutor

2261 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is an optical isomer?


Why does Sodium Bromide have a melting point that is higher than that of Sodium ?


Draw the mechanism for the reaction of an acid chloride with an alcohol to form an ester


How can aldehydes and ketones be distinguished?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning