A distillation column with N plates is being operated under normal conditions. At some point of time, the operation is shifted to total reflux condition (i.e., no product and residue are being withdrawn and feed to the column is stopped). At the new steady state ?

Question

Accepted Answer

The top and bottom compositions correspond to the maximum enrichment available. Total reflux maximizes separation efficiency. This means the top and bottom compositions reach their maximum possible purity (maximum enrichment).