A retort is a vessel used for distillation. It has a bulbous body with an
arm projecting from its top, somewhat in the shape of a "6" on its side. In
use since ancient times, the retort is the forerunner of modern distillation
equipment, used to separate materials of different boiling point. Lacking
reflux capability, it is not suited for purifying complex mixtures, but would
be an ideal method of separating oil from shale.
Mark Pinkney (DDMS)
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