destructive distillation

noun

, Chemistry.

1. the decomposition of a substance, as wood or coal, by heating with a minimal exposure to air, and the collection of the volatile products formed.

destructive distillation

noun

1. the decomposition of a complex substance, such as wood or coal, by heating it in the absence of air and collecting the volatile products

destructive distillation

/ dĭ-strŭk′tĭv /

1. A process by which organic substances such as wood, coal, and oil shale are broken down by heat in the absence of air. This causes them to break down into solids, liquids, and gases, which are then used to make products such as coke, charcoal, oils, and ammonia.

Word History and Origins

Origin of destructive distillation¹

First recorded in 1825–35

Example Sentences

Tannic and Gallic Acids yield the same set of products when submitted to destructive distillation.

From Project Gutenberg

The tobacco-pipe experiment of our boyhood is our first practical introduction to the destructive distillation of coal.

From Project Gutenberg

This arises from the destructive distillation of imperfectly carbonized organic matter.

From Project Gutenberg

Tar is an oily, dark colored, product obtained in the destructive distillation of pine wood.

From Project Gutenberg

On destructive distillation the leaves yield much gas, 10,000 cub.

From Project Gutenberg