The fractional distillation of crude oil

In association with Nuffield Foundation

$Equipment set up in a school laboratory for an experiment simulating the fractional distillation of crude oil, with a side-arm test tube, a thermometer and a delivery tube$

Source: © Shutterstock

Try this class practical or demonstration to simulate the industrial fractional distillation of crude oil. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

In this experiment, students use a crude oil substitute to model the fractional distillation of crude oil. After collecting four fractions at different temperatures, students test each one for viscosity, colour, smell and flammability.

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