Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

fractionate

verb

/ˈfrækʃəˌneɪt/

Definition

To separate a substance into its component parts or fractions.

Examples

The scientists decided to fractionate the oil to obtain the necessary components.
In the lab, we learned how to fractionate the blood to separate plasma from cells.
Fractionating natural gas can help in the extraction of valuable hydrocarbons.

Meaning

Fractionate refers to the process of dividing a mixture into smaller portions or fractions, often based on differences in physical or chemical properties.