Question

Which of the following processes is used in extractive metallurgy of magnesium?

• A. Fused salt electrolysis
• B. Self reduction
• C. Aqueous solution electrolysis
• D. Thermite reduction

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Fused salt electrolysis

Magnesium is extracted by the electrolysis of fused MgO (anhydrous magnesium chloride) obtained from carnalite and magnesite.
Magnesium is obtained at the cathode. Magnesium can also be obtained by the thermal reduction of magnesium oxide at ${2000}^{o}C$ in the vacuum in the presence of reducing agents such as C, Si or Al.
$MgO+C\to Mg+CO$