Fractionating Column

A fractionating column is a device used in distillation to separate mixtures of liquids with different boiling points. It is a tall, vertical tube packed with materials that create surface area, allowing vapors to condense and re-evaporate multiple times as they ascend. This process enhances separation, so components with lower boiling points rise to the top and are collected separately more efficiently. Think of it as a highly refined version of boiling and condensing repeatedly to purify or separate liquids in industries like oil refining or alcohol production.