Question

The following question refer to the extraction of aluminium and iron from their ores:
What is the most important chemical process in the extraction of any metal? State how this essential step is carried out in the extraction of: i. iron, and ii. Aluminium.

Answer 1

Reduction of the oxide is the most important chemical process in the extraction of any metal.
(i) In case of iron :
\[\ce{Fe2O3 + 3CO -> 2Fe + 3CO2}\]
(ii) In case of aluminium:
Al₂O₃ cannot be easily reduced; hence it is subjected to electrolysis. Aluminium is collected at th e cathode.