Question

How are metals extracted?

Answer 1

Metal extraction:

• The process of extracting metals from their ores is called metallurgy.
• Highly reactive metals such as Aluminum can be isolated using an electric current in a technique known as electrolysis.
• The less reactive metals can be extracted by converting the ore into metallic oxide and by reducing it into free metal.
• The conversion of ore to metallic oxide can be done by calcination and roasting.
• Calcination is the process of heating to a high temperature below the melting point of metal in absence of air or a limited supply of air
• Generally, calcination is utilized to convert Hydrated oxides or Hydroxides and Carbonates into respective oxides.
• Roasting is the process of heating to a high temperature below the melting point of metal in presence of air or oxygen.
• Generally roasting is utilized to convert Sulphide ores to respective Oxides.