Question

Electrometallurgical process is used to extract

• A. $\mathrm{Na}$
• B. $\mathrm{Ag}$
• C. $\mathrm{Pb}$
• D. $\mathrm{Fe}$

Answer 1

The correct option is A

$\mathrm{Na}$

The explanation for the correct option

(A) $\mathbf{Na}$

Electrometallurgical process

• Electrometallurgy is a method that is used to extract metal by the use of electrical energy to reduce metals from their molten state by electrolysis.
• The reduction of metals is carried out by electrolysis.
• $\mathrm{Na}$ is highly reactive so it cannot be extracted by reduction with$\mathrm{C},\mathrm{CO}$, etc. It may form complex during reduction.
• So, Sodium$\left(\mathrm{Na}\right)$ is extracted by the electrometallurgical process.

Hence, Option (A) $\mathbf{Na}$is correct.

The explanation for the incorrect options

(B) $\mathbf{Ag}$

• Silver$\left(\mathrm{Ag}\right)$ is extracted by the smelting and chemical leaching process.
• This process is commonly known as Mac Arthur and Forrest's Cyanide process.

(C) $\mathbf{Pb}$

• Lead$\left(\mathrm{Pb}\right)$ is extracted by Smelting in a Reverberatory furnace.
• Lead is subjected to reduction with carbon.

(D) $\mathbf{Fe}$

• Iron$\left(\mathrm{Fe}\right)$ is extracted by using a blast furnace.
• Iron ore is mixed with limestone and coke.

Therefore, Option (A) $\mathbf{Na}$is correct.