Simple Distillation

• What is simple distillation?

  • Simple distillation is a physical separation technique that is used to separate a solvent from a solution 
  • In other words we can use simple distillation if we want so separate a soluble solid from a liquid , but also keep the liquid at the same time

  
• Explain how to obtain a soluble solid and a solvent from a solution using simple distillation?


  • Add the solution to a flask with a thermometer, then connect it with a glass tube and a condenser
  • Heat the solution until it boils , as the liquid evaporates into a vapour , which rises up the glass tube , and passes over the thermometer , increasing the thermometer reading  
  • The vapour passes into the cold condenser , causing the vapour to condense back into a liquid when passing through the condenser  
  • Then liquid collect's in a beaker . and crystals of the solid are left in the flask

  
• Explain the role of the condenser in distillation?

  • Cold water from the tap continuously runs through the condenser , making the condenser cold 
  • So the condenser keeps the inside of the glass tube cold 
  • After running through the condenser, the tap water simply goes down the sink

  
• What is simple distillation used for, and what are its drawbacks?

  • Simple distillation can be used to produce drinking water from sea water 
  • However a great deal of energy is required for simple distillation 
  • So generally it is not used to produce drinking water