Simple and Fractional Distillation

This lesson covers two important distillation techniques — simple distillation and fractional distillation — as required by the Edexcel GCSE Chemistry specification (1CH0, Topic 1). You need to know the apparatus, method, and scientific principles for each, and be able to explain when each technique is appropriate. Distillation also links to the fractional distillation of crude oil, which is an important industrial application.

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Simple Distillation

Simple distillation is used to separate a solvent from a solution. It allows you to collect the liquid (solvent) separately from the dissolved solid or other liquid.

When to Use Simple Distillation

• To obtain pure water from salt water.
• To separate a solvent from a dissolved solid when you want to keep the solvent.
• When there is only one liquid to collect.

How It Works