Reducing friction in engines and machinery
Explanation
Petroleum (crude oil) is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons. It is processed through fractional distillation to separate it into various useful fractions based on their boiling points. Each fraction serves a distinct industrial or domestic purpose.
Analysis of Petroleum Fractions:
- Lubricating Oil: This is a heavy fraction obtained at higher temperatures. Due to its viscous nature, its primary function is to reduce friction and wear between moving parts in engines and industrial machinery.
- Bitumen: The residual fraction left after distillation is used for the surfacing of roads and in paints.
- Kerosene and LPG: These lighter fractions are primarily used as domestic fuels.
- Petroleum Jelly: A semi-solid fraction used in the manufacturing of ointments and cosmetics.
Key Takeaway:
In petroleum fractionation, lighter fractions (LPG, Petrol) are used as fuels, while heavier fractions are used for lubrication (Lubricating Oil) and infrastructure (Bitumen).