Final answer:
Distillation is a physical process used to separate homogeneous mixtures into their component substances based on differences in boiling points. It is widely used in various industries, such as refining petroleum and purifying water. The distillation of alcoholic spirits like rum and scotch is also a common application of this process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Distillation is a physical process used to separate homogeneous mixtures (solutions) into their component substances. It takes advantage of the differences in the volatilities of the component substances. Liquids with different boiling points can be separated through distillation. For example, the distillation of alcoholic spirits such as rum or scotch involves heating the liquid, collecting the vapor, and then cooling it to obtain the distilled liquor.
Distillation is widely used in various industries, including the refining of crude petroleum into aviation fuel, gasoline, kerosene, diesel fuel, and lubricating oil. It is also used in laboratory settings to refine petroleum, isolate fermentation products, and purify water.
Overall, distillation is an important process in Chemistry that allows for the separation and purification of different substances based on their boiling points.