Simple distillation is used to obtain pure solvent from a solution of solute. The distillation is be being used to extract essential oils and fragrance which is stored in this mint solution. In simple distillation, we allow boiling to occur. We heat up and boil the mint solution. The purpose of the boiling chips is to ensure smooth boiling. The solvent, which is water, vaporises containing the mint fragrance and rises then goes into the condenser.
The thermometer, which is placed at the top of the flask, is used to measure the temperature of the vapour of the pure solvent (boiling point of the pure solvent). The vapour will then flow into the condenser. Temperature in the condenser is much lower. The vapour cools down, then condenses back into liquid. The liquid is collected as a distillate in the receiver.
