Distillation Flashcards
What is distillation?
A common method used to separate a pure liquid from its impurities.
Distillation helps purify liquids by removing by-products and remaining reactants.
What apparatus is needed for distillation?
- round-bottom or pear-shaped flask
- condenser
- rubber tubing
- heat source
- stand and clamp
- screw-cap adaptor
- receiver adaptor
- still head
- thermometer
Each item plays a specific role in the distillation process.
How is the flask positioned in the distillation setup?
The flask is clamped by its neck.
This secures the flask and allows for safe heating.
What is the purpose of the still head in the distillation apparatus?
The still-head adaptor connects the flask to the condenser.
It is T-shaped with ground-glass joints for easy assembly.
Why should the joints of the still head be greased?
To allow the apparatus to come apart easily after the experiment.
This is important for safe and easy disassembly.
What role does rubber tubing play in the distillation setup?
It connects the inlet of the condenser to the tap and the outlet to the sink.
This ensures proper water flow for cooling.
Where does water enter the condenser during distillation?
At the lowest point of the condenser.
This is the closest point to the receiver adaptor.
What is the function of the collecting flask in distillation?
To collect the distillate.
This prevents the distillation apparatus from being completely airtight.
What happens when the mixture in the flask is heated?
The mixture will start to boil.
Different liquids have different boiling points.
Which liquid boils first during distillation?
The liquid with the lowest boiling point.
This liquid is the most volatile.
What occurs to the vapours during distillation?
They move out of the flask and into the condenser.
This leaves behind the less volatile components.
What happens to the vapours when they reach the cold condenser?
They condense and become a liquid.
This liquid then drips into the collecting flask.
