Difference in simple and fractional distillation

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Fractional distillation is utilized when separating mixtures with boiling point differences of less than 25°C and involves more than two or three substances. The key distinction in apparatus compared to simple distillation is the presence of a column with plates or similar structures, which enhances separation efficiency. In fractional distillation, a straight delivery tube connects the distillation flask to the receiver, allowing for basic cutting of fractions. This setup contrasts with simple distillation, which lacks such a column since it is effective for components with significantly different boiling points. For detailed instrumentation guidelines, consulting ASTM methods is recommended.
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I found on the internet that fractional is used when the differences in boiling points are below 25C, and that there are more than 2 or 3 substances in the mixture, but i didn´t figure out what's the difference in apparatus or how the substances are purified in fractional distillation. Could anyone please explain it.
 
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Have you tried google?
 
The manual instrumentation does differ a bit, however the principle is similar.

The fractional distillation will use a straight delivery tube to your receiver, so the cutting is extremely basic as the distance between your distillation flask and the outlet is not so large, as in your normal "straight" distillation.

Try checking ASTM methods for more on the structure of instrumentation
 
When looking it up, you should notice the main difference in the fractional distillation apparatus contains a column divided into plates (or something resembling plates) stacked one on top of another.

A simple distillation apparatus doesn't have that kind of column, because as you have found, it is not needed for components with widely different boiling points.
 
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