Fractional Distillation

Chemical vs Physical Changes

• Molecular structure changes

• Molecules DON’T disappear they are rearranged to form a new compound

• EX. Combustion

• Molecular structure remains the same

• Ex. Evaporation Condensation

Chemical Changes Physical Changes

Fractional Distillation

• Using heat to separate any mixture into its various components

Fractional Distillation of Crude

• Separates the mixture of crude oil into various hydrocarbons

How does it work?

• Crude oil is pumped in from storage vats.

• Crude oil enters furnace and is heated. • Hydrocarbons separate at various temps.

Fractions evaporate/condense at different boiling points based on size of hydrocarbon

Fractions are placed in separate containers and further refined if needed

QuickTime™ and ampeg4 decompressor

are needed to see this picture.

Why is there a perpetual flame at the top of the distillation

tower?

What types of products do we use daily that are made from

crude oil?

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