What is the main purpose of a vacuum distillation apparatus?

The primary purpose of a vacuum distillation apparatus is indeed to separate compounds at lower boiling points. This technique is particularly useful for distilling heat-sensitive materials or compounds that might decompose or react at higher temperatures.

In a vacuum distillation setup, the pressure within the system is reduced, which lowers the boiling point of substances. By creating a vacuum, the apparatus allows substances to vaporize and condense at temperatures significantly lower than their normal boiling points, facilitating the separation of components that would otherwise require excessive heat. This makes it an essential tool in organic chemistry, especially when working with fragile compounds.

The other options do not directly relate to the primary function of a vacuum distillation apparatus. For instance, speeding up chemical reactions, mixing substances thoroughly, or safely storing volatile compounds are not the goals of this specific technique. Instead, vacuum distillation focuses on affecting the phase change of substances for the purpose of separation in a controlled manner.