Question

Zinc oxide can be reduced to zinc by using carbon monoxide, but aluminium oxide cannot be reduced by a reducing agent. Give reason.

Answer 1

• Aluminium is placed above the Zinc in reactivity series. So, aluminium is more reactive than zinc.
• Aluminium is a very reactive metal whereas Zinc is a comparatively less reactive metal.
• Zinc being a less reactive metal, its oxide is less stable hence it can be easily reduced by carbon monoxide.
• Aluminium is a highly reactive metal its oxide is stable and cannot be reduced by a reducing agent.
• Therefore, Aluminium can only be reduced by electrolytic reduction.