Question

Reduction of oxides to elements with carbon generally takes place at high temperature, hence $Al$ is used in an aluminothermic process. It is because:

• A. $Al$ is more electropositive than the other metals (to be formed by reduction)
• B. $Al$ has maximum affinity for oxygen.
• C. Reduction is highly exothermic and heat liberated makes the process spontaneous.
• D. Reduction is highly endothermic and heat absorbed makes the process spontaneous.

Answer 1

The correct option is A $Al$ is more electropositive than the other metals (to be formed by reduction)

Aluminium is highly electropositive metal. It has high affinity for oxygen.
$Al$ can reduce certain metal oxides such as $F{e}_2{O}_3,C{r}_2{O}_3$ that are less electropositive than $Al$.
A large amount of heat is liberated in the process. This makes the reaction spontaneous.
The heat liberated is so high that the metal is produced in the molten state which can be used for welding purpose.