Chemical analysis - (CCEA) Distillation

Most elements are rarely found in their pure form. They are found chemically combined with other elements in compounds. Compounds are often found mixed with other compounds. Mixtures may be separated and analysed.

Part ofCombined ScienceStructures, trends, chemical reactions, quantitative chemistry and analysis

Distillation

Simple separates a from a solution using both evaporation and condensation – the change of state as gas cools and forms a liquid.

Simple distillation works because the dissolved has a much higher boiling point than the solvent. As the solution is heated, the solvent evaporates. This gas moves away, cools and condenses – this liquid is called the distillate. The remaining solution becomes more concentrated as the amount of solvent decreases.

Image gallerySkip image gallerySlide1 of 3, Salty water is heated., 1. Salty water is heated.