Practical

Simple distillation | practical videos | 14–16 years

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Simple distillation experiment set up, showing a conical flask containing a black coloured solution sitting on a gauze and tripod over a Bunsen burner. A bung is in the flask and a delivery tube connects it to a test tube in a beaker of ice water

Source: © Royal Society of Chemistry

Video and resources showing how to separate water from a coloured solution

Investigate the separation of water from a coloured solution with GCSE, Junior Cycle and National 5 learners using this simple distillation video, including a step-by-step method, animation and suggested alternative method. Download the supporting resources including teacher and technician notes, worksheets, answers, integrated instructions and more. Use the video and resources to prepare for and complement live practical work, as well as for flipped learning and revision. 

The experiment introduces the equipment and technique, with real-world applications to provide context. Review key terms such as solution, evaporation and condensation. Plus, use the video to show an alternative method using a Liebig condenser. Learners will also develop observation and calculation skills while carrying out the experiment and accompanying activities. 

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