Fractional Distillation Definition

Definition: A process by which components in a chemical mixture are separated according to their different boiling points. Vapors from a boiling solution are passed along a column. The temperature of the column gradually decreases along its length. Components with a higher boiling points condense on the column and return to the solution; components with a lower boiling points pass through the column and are collected.

Examples: Gasoline is produced from crude oil using fractional distillation.

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