Why Is Steam Distillation Used for Eugenol

Eugenol has a high boiling point (254 oC), and many organic compounds decompose at such high temperatures. Steam distillation allows eugenol to be distilled at a much lower boiling point (< 100 oC), thus minimizing the potential for decomposition.

Why eugenol is extracted with steam distillation instead of easy distillation?

Eugenol is isolated via steam distillation rather than simple distillation because it has a boiling point of around 250 degrees Celsius. … Instead, steam distillation lowers the boiling point of the compound to around 100 degrees Celsius since the initial mixture is heterogeneous (two immiscible liquids).

Why do we use steam distillation?

Steam distillation is a separation process used to purify or isolate temperature-sensitive materials, such as natural aromatic compounds. Steam or water is added to the distillation apparatus, lowering the boiling points of the compounds.