Describe the fractional crystallization process and its application.

Short Answer

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Fractional crystallization is a method used to refine substances based on differences in solubility. When a mixture dissolved in a solvent cools, the substance with lower solubility crystallizes first and can be removed. This process is repeated until only the desired substance remains. It's used in industries for purification of chemicals and separation of metals from ores, and also plays a role in the natural formation of igneous rocks.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Fractional Crystallization

Fractional crystallization is a method of refining substances based on differences in solubility. In this method, a mixture is first dissolved in a solvent. When the solution cools, the substance with the lowest solubility crystallizes first and can be removed. This process is repeated until the desired level of purification is achieved.
02

Process of Fractional Crystallization

The process of fractional crystallization involves a series of steps: 1. The mixture to be purified is dissolved in a solvent. 2. The solution is then allowed to slowly cool. 3. As it cools, the substance with the lowest solubility will begin to form crystals first. 4. These crystals can then be removed from the solution, leaving behind a solution with a higher concentration of the other substances. 5. This process is repeated, each time forming and removing crystals of the substance with the next lowest solubility, until all substances have been separated.
03

Application of Fractional Crystallization

Fractional crystallization has many applications. It is commonly used in the purification of substances in the chemical industry, such as the production of pharmaceuticals. It is also used in metal ore processing to separate valuable metals from ore. In the natural world, fractional crystallization plays an important role in the formation of igneous rocks.

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