How does fractional distillation work?

Different length hydrocarbon chains are separated by their different boiling points as longer chains will have stronger intermolecular attractions. The crude oil is heated and injected into the base of the column which is therefore hottest at the bottom and coolest at the top, and compounds with the lowest boiling points will rise further and be collected as they condense towards the top of the column. Hydrocarbons with a very high boiling point will remain in liquid or solid phase and are collected in the base of the column as bitumen. 

Answered by Bianca S. Chemistry tutor

4359 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Please write the equation to form the compound Zinc Chloride?


Explain the difference in reactivity of the halogens as group 7 is descended.


Balance the following equation: Na + H2O -> NaOH + H2


What is the % yield if 12g of magnesium is dissolved in hydrochloric acid to produce 20g of magnesium chloride?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences