C 3.1 Extracting metals Flashcards
(10 cards)
What is a metal ore?
A rock that contains enough of a metal compound to make it economically worthwhile to extract.
How are metals found in the Earth’s crust?
Most are found as compounds (e.g. oxides), not as pure elements.
Which metals can be extracted by reduction with carbon?
Metals less reactive than carbon, such as iron.
Which metals must be extracted using electrolysis?
Metals more reactive than carbon, such as aluminium and sodium.
Why is electrolysis used for some metals?
Because these metals are too reactive to be extracted by carbon reduction.
What are the disadvantages of using electrolysis?
High energy costs
Expensive equipment
Not environmentally friendly
What is reduction in terms of oxygen?
Removal of oxygen from a compound.
Write the word equation for extracting iron in a blast furnace.
Iron oxide + carbon → iron + carbon dioxide
Why is gold often found in its native (uncombined) form?
Because it is very unreactive, so it doesn’t easily form compounds.
What are the benefits of recycling metals rather than extracting new ones?
Saves energy
Conserves natural resources
Reduces pollution and environmental damage
