Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Crystallization is a mass transfer operation where a chemical is transferred from a liquid solution to a pure solid crystalline phase.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
The process relies on the difference in solubility of the solute at different temperatures or concentrations.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Crystallization is one of the most important industrial processes for producing high-purity chemicals. By carefully controlling the cooling or evaporation of a saturated solution, the desired substance forms highly ordered crystals, leaving impurities behind in the remaining liquid (mother liquor). It is a "purification" step because the crystal lattice structure naturally excludes foreign molecules.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Crystallization is primarily used to purify solids from solution.