Distillation is a process in many laboratories for the purpose of separating and/or purifying components of a liquid mixture. The distillation apparatus used consists of three major parts: distillation flask - to heat the mixture and volatilize the components, a condenser to cool the vapors back to liquid state, and a collection vessel. The apparatus is typically made of glass and therefore subject to breakage. All components of the distillation apparatus should be protected to a stable stand or rack to avoid it from falling over.