Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry · Spec 4.7-4.11
Crude Oil & Fractional Distillation
How crude oil is separated into useful fractions by fractional distillation.
Chemistry revision video
Crude Oil & Fractional Distillation
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Spec 4.7-4.11
What you need to know
- Say what crude oil is
- Describe fractional distillation
- Name the fractions and their uses
Active recall
Quick check
Answer each question before opening the answer.
How does fractional distillation separate crude oil?
The oil is heated and the vapours rise up a column, condensing at different heights according to their boiling points.
How do the fractions change as you go down the column (larger molecules)?
Higher boiling point, more viscous, less flammable and darker in colour.
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