Distillation Columns

A distillation column is a device used to separate different liquids mixed together based on their boiling points. Imagine heating a mixture; the component with the lowest boiling point vaporizes first and rises up the column. As it moves upward, it cools and condenses back into liquid, which is collected separately. This process allows industries to purify or isolate specific components, such as in producing alcohol, refining gasoline, or separating chemicals. The column's design, with trays or packing, facilitates efficient separation by controlling temperature and vapor flow.