Question

Which of the following ores are concentrated by froth flotation?

• A. Copper pyrite
• B. Magnetite
• C. Galena
• D. Haematite

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (C)

Galena

Froth floatation method is used for the concentration of sulphide ores.

This is because sulphide ore particles are preferentially wet by adsorption on collectors (e.g., pine oils, fatty acids, xanthates, etc.) and impurities are preferentially wet by water.

Analysing the options:

Option (A):

Haematite is a common iron oxide compound with the formula, $F{e}_2{O}_3$. It is not a sulphide ore. So, it is not concentrated by froth floatation method

Option (B):

Galena is also known as the Lead glance. It is present in the form of Lead (II) Sulphide, PbS. It is a sulphide ore. So, it can be concentrated by the froth floatation method.

Option (C):

Copper pyrites $(CuFe{S}_2$) is an ore of sulphide. So, it can be separated by froth floatation method.

Option (D):

Magnetite is iron ore, with the chemical formula $F{e}_3{O}_4$. It is not a sulphide ore. So, it is not concentrated by froth floatation method.

Hence correct options are (B) and (C).