Fractionate

To separate a mixture into its component parts or fractions, often through physical or chemical processes such as distillation, chromatography, or centrifugation. This term is commonly used in chemistry, biochemistry, and materials science to describe the process of isolating specific elements or compounds from a complex mixture.

Fractionate meaning with examples

• In the laboratory, scientists often fractionate crude oil to separate different hydrocarbons based on their boiling points, enabling the extraction of fuels like gasoline and diesel. This process not only improves the efficiency of fuel production but also ensures the purity of each fraction.
• Pharmaceutical researchers employ advanced techniques to fractionate peptides from complex biological samples. This allows for the isolation and study of individual peptide components, which can lead to the development of targeted therapies and a better understanding of biological mechanisms.
• During the winemaking process, it is essential to fractionate grape juice, separating solids from liquid to enhance clarity and improve flavor. This procedure ensures that the final product is both visually appealing and rich in the desired aromatic compounds.
• Environmental scientists often fractionate soil samples to analyze the distribution of various pollutants. By isolating contaminated fractions, they can assess the extent of pollution and develop remediation strategies tailored to specific contaminants.