What is one of the results when distillation occurs?

• A. Color change of the liquid
• B. Removal of all impurities from a solution
• C. Separation of the components based on boiling points
• D. Deepening the flavor of the liquid

Answer: (C)

Distillation is a separation process that relies on the differences in boiling points of the components in a mixture. When a liquid solution is heated, the component with the lowest boiling point will vaporize first. This vapor can then be cooled and condensed back into a liquid, effectively separating it from the other components. This technique is commonly used in various applications, such as purifying water or producing alcoholic beverages, where the desired product is collected while leaving behind other substances with higher boiling points.

The correct response highlights the fundamental principle of distillation—separation based on boiling points. This is crucial to understand, especially in a surgical setting, where precise purity and concentration of solutions can impact their efficacy and safety in procedures. Understanding this principle aids in using distillation effectively in applications such as sterilizing surgical instruments or creating specific concentrations of antiseptic solutions.