Question

There are several methods for refining metals. Explain a method for refining Zirconium.

Answer 1

van Arkel method for refining $zirconium$:
$Oxygen$ and $nitrogen$ is completely removed from impure $zirconium$. Impure $zirconium$ is heated with little iodine in closed vessel. Volatile
$zirconiumiodide$ is obtained.
$Zr+2I_2\to Zr{I}_4\left(vapour\right)$
Using a tungsten filament, volatile
$zirconiumiodide$ is heated to above 1800 K. The pure metal is deposited on the filament.
$Zr{I}_4\left(vapour\right)\to Zr+2I_2$