Distillation Column

Definition

A distillation column is a tall vertical apparatus used in the process of separating mixtures based on differences in boiling points. It consists of multiple trays or packing materials that provide surfaces for vapor-liquid contact.

Related terms

Boiling Point:

The temperature at which a substance changes from liquid to vapor phase.

Fractional Distillation:

A type of distillation that separates components within a mixture by utilizing multiple trays or fractional columns.

Reflux: The process of returning condensed vapors back into the distillation column to improve separation efficiency.