Question

Volatile metals are purified by:

• A. Oxidation
• B. Distillation
• C. Liquation
• D. Electrolytic refining

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Distillation

Distillation process is used to purify volatile metals.

Refining of volatile metals like mercury, zinc etc. is done by distillation. The impure form of these metals can be distilled to get their vapours, which are then condensed to get the pure metal. The metal to be refined is heated above its boiling point when the impurities do not vaporize. Pure metal vapourises and is condensed while the impurities are left behind.