What is simple distillation used for?

Simple distillation is a technique primarily used to separate a liquid from a solution. This process is effective when there is a significant difference in boiling points between the solvent and the solute, which allows the liquid to be vaporized and then condensed back into a liquid form. In many cases, such as separating water from saltwater, simple distillation enables the collection of the purified solvent, leaving behind any dissolved solids or impurities.

The technique involves heating the solution until the solvent evaporates, capturing the vapor, and then cooling it to collect the distilled liquid. This method is commonly applied in laboratories and industries for processes such as purifying water or separating alcohol from mixtures.

In contrast, extracting solids from liquids or mixing liquids are not suitable applications for simple distillation. Other methods, like filtration or different distillation techniques, would be better suited for those purposes.