Extraction of Metals from its Ore (6)

Extraction of metal such as aluminium from its ore through the process of electrolysis (3)

The melting process uses an extremely high energy since the melting point of aluminium oxide, Al2 O3 is 2000 °C

Extraction of metal such as aluminium from its ore through the process of electrolysis (4)

Cryolite, Na3AlF6 is melted together with aluminium oxide, Al2 O3 to lower its melting point

Extraction of metal such as aluminium from its ore through the process of electrolysis (5)

Molten aluminium sinks to the bottom of the layer because its density is higher, and then is drained out through a designated channel

Extraction of metal such as aluminium from its ore through the process of electrolysis (6)

The entire process of aluminium extraction consumes a huge amount of electricity

Extraction of metal from its ore through the process of carbon reduction (1)

Iron metal, which is less reactive than carbon, C can be extracted by carbon, C reduction process

Extraction of metal from its ore through the process of carbon reduction (2)

This process is carried out in a blast furnace by heating up iron ore or hematite (Fe2O3) with coke, C and limestone, CaCO3

Extraction using a more reactive metal (1)

When metals are heated together, the more reactive metal can extract the less reactive metal from its metal oxide

Extraction of metal from its ore through the process of carbon reduction (2)

The extraction using a more reactive metal releases large amounts of heat that produce metal in molten state

Extraction of metal from its ore through the process of carbon reduction (3)

For example, in a thermite reaction, aluminium powder, Al that is more reactive is heated together with iron(III) oxide powder, Fe2O3

Metal extraction methods

Are different, depending on the reactivity of the metals to be extracted