Describe how a fractional distillation column separates crude oil fractions.

3 years ago

1 Reply

3560 views

Reese Cole

Get A Free Cheatsheet For Hydrocarbons 🔥

Use our concise notes and diagrams to only revise what you need to know.

By submitting your email, you agree to join our mailing list. You can unsubscribe at any time.

1 Answer

Carola Verified Sherpa Tutor ✓

Experienced A Level Chemistry tutor with Phd in Biochemistry

24 reviews

The column is hot at the bottom and cool at the top. Crude oil is evaporated and its vapours travel up the column condensing at different temperatures. Substances with high boiling points condense at the bottom and substances with lower boiling points condense on the way to the top. Each fraction then contains hydrocarbon molecules with a similar number of carbon atoms and a similar range of boiling points.

Found this useful? Give kudos!

I'm available for 1:1 private online tuition!

Click here to view my profile and arrange a free introduction.

Think you can help?

Need a GCSE Chemistry tutor?

Get started with a free online introductions with an experienced and qualified online tutor on Sherpa.

Find a GCSE Chemistry Tutor