A distillation column is a large vertical vessel used in the separation of mixtures based on differences in boiling points. It operates by heating a liquid mixture, causing its components to vaporize. The vapor then rises through the column, where it cools and condenses at various levels, allowing for the collection of different fractions. Inside the column, trays or packing materials create surface area for vapor and liquid to interact, enhancing separation efficiency. Distillation columns are commonly used in industries such as petroleum refining, chemical production, and alcohol distillation to purify and separate valuable products.