The process of separating a mixture of components into distinct components or groups (fractions) of components having different properties such as size, boiling point, etc. It is applied to solids, liquids, isotopes, and particles in suspension. Fractional distillation is used to separate mixtures of liquids with different boiling points such as the separation of hydrocarbons in crude oil in a fractionating column or pipestill. The crude oil is heated to around 350°C until it vaporizes and enters the fractionating column. The vapour rises through perforated trays in the column condensing back down into distinct liquids. Light fractions such as kerosene and naphtha collect near the top while heavier fractions such as lubricants and waxes collect near the bottom.