Definition
Fractional Distillation is the process of breaking Crude Oil into separate Fractions which is a useful mixture containing similar length chain Alkenes and Alkenes. During the fractional distillation of Crude Oil:
- Heated crude oil enters a tall fractionating column, which is hot at the bottom and gets cooler towards the top
- Vapours from the oil rise through the column
- Vapours condense when they become cool enough
- Liquids are led out of the column at different heights
Short Chain are found nearer the top due to lower boiling point, whereas Long Chain are found nearer the bottom.