Distillation

This practical lesson covers:

  1. How to separate a mixture using distillation

Investigating the process of distillation


Aim

To separate a mixture into its constituent parts through the process of distillation.

Background information

Distillation is a separation technique that separates mixtures with different boiling points. In this practical, you will be using distillation to separate a mixture into its individual components and record the boiling point of each.

What is the purpose of distillation?

to combine different substances into a mixture

to separate a mixture into its constituent parts based on their boiling points

to change a solid into a gas

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What equipment is needed for distillation?

distillation apparatus, Bunsen burner, thermometer, sample to be distilled, beakers

test tubes, pipettes, sample to be tested

microscope, petri dish, sample to be observed

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What happens during the process of distillation?

the mixture is stirred, the components mix together and form a new substance

the mixture is cooled, the components solidify and fall to the bottom of the flask

the mixture is heated, the volatile components vaporise and travel up the column, then condense into a liquid and collect in the receiver

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What is the name of the technique that separates mixtures with different boiling points?

Distillation

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