Question

Describe the Frothfloatationprocess and draw labeled diagrams.

Answer 1

Froth floatation is usually employed for the purification of sulfide containing ores. In froth floatation finely ground ore is introduced in a tank with a small amount of pine oil. After this a strong current of air is flown in the tank which produces a foam or froth on the surface of the tank. The metal sulfide is wetted by the foam but gangue particles are not. As a result the metal sulfide is brought to the surface of the tank which is later skimmed off. The gangue particles settle at the bottom of the tank and are later removed.