Alternative methods of extracting metals

Question 1

Phytomining definition

Answer 1

plants absorb low grade metal compounds in the soil through the roots, harvested, burnt, ash contains metal compounds, ash dissolved in acids, metals extracted by electrolysis or displacement

Question 2

Phytomining and bioleaching advantages

Answer 2

smaller impact on environment, requires less energy, cam extract low grade ores cheaper, less waste, phytomining is carbon neutral

Question 3

Phytomining and bioleaching disadvantages

Answer 3

slower process, lower quantity of metal are obtained

Question 4

Why can’t we mine low-grade ores like high-grade ores

Answer 4

most high grade ores have already been mined, mining of low grade ores using those methods make it economically un-viable

Question 5

Bioleaching definition

Answer 5

using bacteria and sulfuric acid to change solid copper sulfide into soluble copper sulfate, copper in solution id extracted using electrolysis or displacement where scrap iron is used to displace copper