Question

Why is fractional distillation better than simple distillation?

Answer 1

Fractional distillation is superior to simple distillation as it is more precise in separating liquid mixtures with different boiling points, especially in the refining of crude oil into various petroleum products.

Step-by-step explanation:

Fractional distillation is better than simple distillation because it separates mixtures of two or more liquids with different boiling points more effectively. In the process of fractional distillation, a mixture is heated up such that the various products, like hydrocarbons, vaporize. The vaporization and subsequent condensation occur in a fractionating column, where the vapors cool at different heights according to their boiling temperatures. Lighter components with lower boiling points rise to the top and condense at cooler levels, whereas heavier components with higher boiling points condense at lower levels. This method allows for a more precise separation of components, unlike simple distillation, which is less efficient for mixtures with close boiling points. Oil refineries often use fractional distillation on a large scale to separate crude oil into products like diesel fuel, kerosene, and gasoline, each with its appropriate composition for various applications.

Answer 2

With simple distillation you can separate two liquids of different booking points.The one with the lowest boiling point boils first travels as a gas along a tube called a condenser and is cooled here, because the condenser tube is kept cool. The gas and condenses and falls as a liquid into a separate container. Liquids should not be too close in boiling points. Bigger than a 50 degree difference is best.

Fractional distillation separates many liquids e.g. the liquids of crude oil. Because they have different boiling points, the substances in crude oil can be separated using fractional distillation. The crude oil is evaporated and its vapours allowed to condense at different temperatures in a fractionating column.