mediumboiling

Mediumboiling refers to a category of substances that boil at temperatures between those considered low-boiling and high-boiling. The precise temperature range for mediumboiling can vary depending on the context, but it generally encompasses liquids that require moderate heating to transition into a gaseous state. This category is often used in distillation and separation processes within chemistry and industry.

For example, in the fractional distillation of crude oil, fractions like kerosene and diesel fuel are considered mediumboiling. They are less volatile than gasoline (low-boiling) and more volatile than lubricating oils or asphalt (high-boiling). Understanding the boiling point range of different substances is crucial for efficient separation and purification.

In laboratory settings, solvents such as ethanol or isopropanol might be considered mediumboiling compared to highly volatile solvents like diethyl ether or less volatile solvents like glycols. The choice of a mediumboiling solvent depends on the desired reaction temperature, solubility of reactants, and ease of removal after the process. The classification helps in selecting appropriate equipment and safety measures for handling and processing these materials.