Describe the process of Fractional Distillation

Crude oil heated and fed into the bottom of the fractionating column as a vapour. The column is cooler at the top and hotter at the bottom of the column. The process works using the different boiling and condensing points of the fractions as different fractions condense at different temperatures. The fractions with the highest boiling points will condense towards the bottom, and the fractions with the lowest boiling points will condense towards the top, separating the crude oil mixture. The condensed fractions, now liquids, are collected through pipes and positioned at different heights within the column.

LD
Answered by Lauren D. Chemistry tutor

5519 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Balance the following equation: C3H8 + O2 ---> CO2 + H2O


Explain in terms of structure why giant ionic lattices have high melting and boiling points. [4]


Why don't atoms have an overall charge?


Show the covalent bonding in terms of electrons in their outer shell for a molecule of Carbon Dioxide


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