Question

The diagram represents fractional distillation for the separation of mixtures. Answer the following :

1. Can two immiscible liquids be separated by this process?
2. Separation of liquids by this process is based on which physical property?
3. If methyl alcohol & water are to be separated, which liquid would remain in flask ‘X’ after condensation.
4. Give a reason for the above answer.
5. State the purpose of the fractionating column in the apparatus.

Answer 1

1. No, they can be separated by separating funnel.

2. The physical property on which separation is based “Difference in their boiling points.”

3. Water having boiling point 100°C will remain in flask ‘X’.

4. Alcohol having lower B.P. 78°C will evaporate first and condense in the conical flask — receiver ‘Y’.
5. The upper part of the ‘Fractionating column is cooler, so as the hot vapours rise up in the column, they get cooled (condense) and trickle back into the distillation flask ‘X’.