Separation of petroleum into its components is done by

Options

A. chromatography
B. sublimation
C. distillation
D. fractional distillation.

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question:**
The question asks about the method used to separate petroleum into its various components.

2. **Analyzing the Options:**
We have four options to consider:
- A) Chromatography
- B) Sublimation
- C) Distillation
- D) Fractional Distillation

3. **Evaluating Option A - Chromatography:**
Chromatography is a technique primarily used for separating mixtures based on the movement of different substances through a medium. It is typically used for colors or small quantities of substances, not for separating large volumes of liquid like petroleum. Therefore, this option is not suitable.

4. **Evaluating Option B - Sublimation:**
Sublimation is the process where a solid turns directly into a gas without passing through a liquid state. Since petroleum is a liquid, sublimation does not apply here. Thus, this option is also incorrect.

5. **Evaluating Option C - Distillation:**
Distillation is a process used to separate components of a mixture based on differences in boiling points. However, while distillation can separate some mixtures, it is not the most efficient method for separating the complex mixture of hydrocarbons found in petroleum.

6. **Evaluating Option D - Fractional Distillation:**
Fractional distillation is a specialized form of distillation that is used to separate a mixture into its individual components based on their different boiling points. This method is particularly effective for separating liquids that have close boiling points, which is exactly the case for the various components of petroleum. Therefore, this is the correct method for separating petroleum into its components.

7. **Conclusion:**
The correct answer to the question is **D) Fractional Distillation**.

---