Fractional Distillation of Crude Oil Flashcards

All 8 cards in this deck

How does fractional distillation separate crude oil into fractions?

The crude oil is heated to a vapour and fed into a column that is hot at the bottom and cooler at the top. Each fraction condenses at the height matching its boiling point range: higher boiling points condense lower down.

Why does the viscosity of the fractions increase down a fractionating column?

The molecules are larger/longer (more carbons), so there are stronger intermolecular forces between them.

What is the kerosene fraction used for?

Fuel for aircraft (jets).

What is the diesel oil fraction used for?

Fuel for some cars and for trains (also lorries, tractors).

What is the fuel oil fraction used for?

Fuel for large ships and in some power stations.

What is the bitumen fraction used for?

Surfacing roads and roofs.

What is the petrol fraction used for?

Fuel for cars.

What is the gases fraction from crude oil used for?

Domestic heating and cooking.