How Is Steam Distillation Different from Simple Distillation

Different. Simple distillation is powered by a direct heat source usually of over 100°C. In steam distillation the heat source is steam passing through the medium being distilled. It is therefore usually performed at much lower temperature except where the steam is under pressure.

Why is steam distillation used rather than simple distillation?

The advantage of steam distillation over simple distillation is that the lower boiling point reduces decomposition of temperature-sensitive compounds. Steam distillation is useful for the purification of organic compounds, although vacuum distillation is more common. When organics are distilled, the vapor is condensed.

Is steam distillation and distillation same?

Distillation is a process used to separate liquids in a mixture based on their relative boiling points. … Distillation is a physical process rather than a chemical one. Steam distillation is a special type of distillation used in temperature-sensitive applications.