Introduction to metals

Question 1

Properties of metals

Answer 1

High melting point
Shiny
High boiling point
Sonorous- rings when hit
Conductor of heat and electricity
Ductile- can be drawn into wires
Malleable- bends without breaking

Question 2

Where are metals found

Answer 2

Metals are found in the Earth. They are either found in ores (metal compounds) or uncombined elements (pure). Gold and silver are found as uncombined elements. They are also the least reactive metals.

Question 3

What are the 2 biological methods of extraction

Answer 3

Bioleaching and phytoextraction

Question 4

Method of bioleaching

Answer 4

Bacteria absorbs copper compounds from soil. Solution containing copper ions formed. Copper is extracted by a displacement reaction.

Question 5

Method of phytoextraction

Answer 5

Plants are grown on soil containing copper ions. Plants absorb the copper through their roots. Plants are burned, and the metal can be extracted from the ash

Question 6

Pros of bioleaching

Answer 6

Does not require high temperatures
No harmful gases formed
Less damage to landscape Conserves supplies of ores

Question 7

Pros of phytoextraction

Answer 7

Extract metals from contaminated soil
No harmful gases formed
Less damage to landscape
Conserves supplies of ores

Question 8

Cons of bioleaching

Answer 8

Very slow
Toxic substances and sulfuric acid formed.

Question 9

Cons of phytoextraction

Answer 9

Very slow
Expensive
Dependant on the weather