What is the first phase when simple distillation is performed?

The first phase in simple distillation involves heating the solution. This step is essential because the purpose of distillation is to separate components based on their different boiling points. By heating the solution, the liquid component with the lower boiling point evaporates first, forming vapor. This vapor can then be directed to a condenser where it will cool and condense back into a liquid, which is subsequently collected. The heating phase is crucial as it initiates the process of separation, allowing for the efficient removal of the desired component from the mixture.