Final answer:
The correct order of the columns in three-column distillation of rum is beer column, purifying column, rectifying column. These columns sequentially heat and vaporize the mash, remove impurities, and then purify the alcohol.
Step-by-step explanation:
The proper order of the columns in a three-column distillation of rum is beer column, purifying column, rectifying column. This process starts with the beer column, where the fermented mash, also known as 'beer,' is heated and the alcohol and other volatiles are vaporized. The vapors then pass into the purifying column, which removes impurities and unwanted components, often through the use of trays or plates to create contact between the vapor and a liquid phase. Finally, in the rectifying column, the alcohol is further purified and concentrated. This column often contains many stages or trays to enhance the separation between alcohol and water to achieve the desired purity and concentration.