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Distillation: meaning, definitions and examples

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distillation

 

[ˌdɪstɪˈleɪʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

chemical process

Distillation is the process of separating the components or substances from a liquid mixture by selective boiling and condensation. It is commonly used in the production of alcoholic beverages, essential oils, and petroleum products.

Synonyms

extraction, purification, separation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
distillation

Distillation is mainly used in the context of separating liquids based on differences in their boiling points. This process is common in both laboratory settings and industrial applications, such as for purifying chemicals or producing alcoholic beverages.

  • The distillation of crude oil produces various useful products like gasoline and diesel.
  • We used distillation to separate ethanol from the fermentation mixture.
separation

Separation is a general term used for processes that divide a mixture into two or more distinct parts. This can be achieved through different methods like filtration, centrifugation, or chemical processes, and is applicable in many scientific and industrial fields.

  • The machine is designed for the separation of different grades of plastic.
  • Separation of the components in a mixture allows for more precise chemical analysis.
extraction

Extraction refers to the process of separating one substance from a mixture using a solvent. This is often used in culinary, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries to isolate desired components.

  • The extraction of essential oils from flowers requires specific techniques.
  • They are working on the extraction of valuable minerals from ore.
purification

Purification involves removing impurities from a substance to obtain a purified product. This term is broadly used in various fields like chemistry, water treatment, and even in purifying air.

  • Water purification is essential for safe drinking water.
  • The laboratory focused on the purification of the synthesized compound.

Examples of usage

  • The distillation of whiskey involves heating the fermented liquid to separate the alcohol from other components.
  • The distillation of crude oil is a key step in the refining process to obtain various petroleum products.
Context #2 | Noun

purification

Distillation is also used as a method of purification, where impurities are left behind as the pure substance evaporates and then condenses. This method is commonly used in laboratories to obtain pure solvents or chemicals.

Synonyms

clarification, purification, refinement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
distillation

This word is typically used in scientific, industrial, and chemical processes where a substance is heated and then condensed to separate components based on boiling points.

  • The distillation of crude oil produces gasoline, diesel, and other products.
  • By using distillation, they were able to obtain pure water from seawater.
purification

This term is used when the focus is on making something pure by removing contaminants. It can apply to water, air, or even metaphorically to behaviors or intentions.

  • The purification of drinking water is essential for good health.
  • The priest spoke about the purification of the soul.
refinement

Refinement is used when improving or making something more fine or sophisticated. It could be about a process, substance, or even improving skills or manners.

  • The refinement of gold involves removing impurities to achieve high purity levels.
  • His manners showed great refinement after years of etiquette lessons.
clarification

Use this term in contexts where the goal is to make something clear or easier to understand, often by removing confusion or impurities. It is common in both everyday language and technical processes like clarifying liquids.

  • The teacher provided clarification on the complex topic.
  • The clarification of the juice meant removing any pulp or sediment.

Examples of usage

  • The distillation of water is a common method to purify it for drinking purposes.
  • Distillation can be used to purify organic compounds in chemistry experiments.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The process dates back to ancient times, with evidence of distillation used in Babylon around 2000 B.C.
  • Alchemists in the Middle Ages made distillation popular, believing it was a way to create pure substances and find the 'philosopher's stone.'
  • The word 'distillation' comes from the Latin 'distillare,' which means 'to drip down,' referencing the way liquid is collected.

Science

  • In chemistry, distillation is crucial for separating components of a mixture based on different boiling points.
  • Two common types include simple distillation, used for mixtures with significantly different boiling points, and fractional distillation for more complex mixtures.
  • Distillation is vital in producing essential oils, spirits, and purified water in industries.

Pop Culture

  • Distillation plays a central role in the production of whiskey, where the process gives each type a unique flavor.
  • In movies and TV shows, characters might often reference clever plots involving distilling illicit substances, showcasing the process's association with mystery and intrigue.
  • The rise of craft distilleries has sparked a cultural trend, leading to a resurgence in interest in homemade liquors and artisanal spirits.

Literature

  • The concept of distillation has been used metaphorically in literature, representing the act of distilling experiences or knowledge into a more refined understanding.
  • Poets often liken life's complexities to mixtures needing distillation, emphasizing clarity and purity amid chaos.
  • Famous works in alchemy, such as those by Paracelsus, often describe distillation as the key to transformation and enlightenment.

Economics

  • Many industries rely on distillation to create valuable products, influencing market dynamics, especially in the beverage and petrochemical sectors.
  • The efficiency of distillation processes can significantly reduce production costs, making it a critical operation in large-scale manufacturing.
  • Emerging technologies in distillation are enhancing energy efficiency, which could redefine production standards in various fields.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,854 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.