fractional distillation
What fractional distillation means in Chemistry A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of fractional distillation
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain fractional distillation in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A separation method that works because ethanol boils at 78 °C and water at 100 °C, so the vapour above the heated mixture is richer in ethanol.
A process in which vaporised crude oil is fed into a tall column and vapours rise until they reach a tray cool enough for them to condense.
Topics that use fractional distillation
- Alcohol production (AQA A-Level)
- Fractional distillation of crude oil (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Carbon neutral fuel
- condenser water direction
- Environmental and ethical issues
- fermentation of glucose
- Hydration mechanism
- hydration of alkenes
- London forces and chain length
- optimum temperature
Using fractional distillation in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Chemistry questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge