Question

Why is operating a distillation adiabatically desirable? How can this be attained? When is this particularly important:

a) To increase efficiency; by insulating apparatus; for volatile compounds
b) To decrease efficiency; by using external heating; for non-volatile compounds
c) To change the process; by increasing pressure; for solid compounds
d) To alter the duration; by using a vacuum; for liquid compounds

Answer 1

An adiabatic distillation process is desirable for controlling temperature and increasing efficiency, while insulation and external heating are used for volatile or non-volatile compounds, respectively.

Step-by-step explanation:

Operating a distillation adiabatically is desirable for specific reasons. Firstly, an adiabatic process ensures that no heat is allowed to enter or leave the system, which means that the temperature of the system can be controlled more effectively. This is particularly important when dealing with volatile compounds or when trying to increase efficiency. Insulating the distillation apparatus helps maintain adiabatic conditions. For non-volatile compounds or when trying to decrease efficiency, external heating can be used instead. Increasing pressure or using a vacuum can be used to change the process or alter the duration of distillation, respectively.