Abstract: A hydrocarbon mixture consisting of an aromatic and a non-aromatic component is subjected to a liquid-liquid extraction and/or an extractive distillation. A solvent is used which selectively dissolves the aromatic component so as to form an extract phase. The extract phase is introduced into a distillation column for separating the solvent and the aromatic component. The column is provided with trays and the extract phase is introduced into the column at about the middle thereof from where the solvent flows downwardly and the aromatic component flows upwardly. Sufficient water is introduced into the sump of the column to insure that the trays above the location at which the extract phase enters the column are filled with water during the separation. This improves the operation of the distillation column. An arrangement for carrying out the above process is also disclosed.