Question

Considering the Ellingham diagram, which of the following metals can be used to reduce alumina?

Options

• Fe

• Cu

• Mg

• Zn

Answer 1

Mg

Explanation:

From the Ellingham diagram, the line for the formation of MgO lies below that of Al₂O₃, which means MgO is more stable than Al₂O₃.
Hence, magnesium can reduce alumina (Al₂O₃) to aluminium, while Zn, Fe, and Cu cannot, as their oxides are less stable than Al₂O₃.