An aqueous solution of acetic acid is to be enriched by simple (differential) distillation. The flask is initially charged with 0.025 k/mol of solution of composition 0.600 mol fraction water.

a) Distillation is continued until the composition of the liquid in the flask has fallen to 0.300 mol fraction water. Assuming that the vapour is completely condensed and collected in a cooled receiver, calculate the quantity and composition of the distillate.

b) Repeat the calculation for the case in which distillation is stopped when the composition of the liquid in the still has reached 0.500 mol fraction water.

c) Explain why separation is so poor, particularly in case (a).

Equilibrium data

x y

0.300 0.420

0.350 0.483

0.400 0.537

0.450 0.592

0.500 0.638

0.550 0.685

0.600 0.728

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