Question

Sulphide ore of zinc/copper is concentrated by:

• A. forth floatation
• B. electromagnetic process
• C. gravity process
• D. distillation

Answer 1

The correct option is A forth floatation

• Froth floatation method is used for removing gangue from sulphide ores. In this process, a suspension of the powdered ore is made with water.
  
• Collectors and froth stabilizers are added to it. Collectors (e.g., pine oils, fatty acids, xanthates, etc.) enhance non-wettability of the mineral particles and froth stabilizers (e.g., cresols, aniline) stabilize the froth.
  
• The mineral particles become wet by oils while the gangue particles by
  

water.

• A rotating paddle agitates the mixture and draws air in it. As a result, the froth is formed which carries the mineral particles. The froth is light and is skimmed off. It is then dried for recovery of the ore particles.