Question

Define the following terms:

1. Matrix

2. Flux

3. Slag

Answer 1

Earthly or rocky impurities including silica $\left(Si{O}_2\right)$, mud, etc., which are associated with the ore is called as gangue or matrix.

Flux: A flux is a substance added to the charge in a furnace to remove the gangue particles.It is added to the ore to reduce the fusion temperature and to remove impurities.

E.g. Calcium oxide, silica, etc.

Slag: Slag is the fusible product formed when flux reacts with gangue during the extraction of metals.

$Si{O}_2$ + $CaC{O}_3$$\to$ $CaSi{O}_3$ + $C{O}_2$

Gangue Flux Slag