Bioleaching

Question 1

This method has a…

Answer 1

Low yeild.

Question 2

This method involves what?

Answer 2

Bacteria.

Question 3

How long does this method take?

Answer 3

This method can take up to 200 years, so it is not a quick process.

Question 4

What substances are used to extract metal from ore?

Answer 4

Enzymes or oxidizing substances.

Question 5

Enzymes are used to

Answer 5

Extract metal from ore.

Question 6

This method is for

Answer 6

Extracting metals from low grade ores.

Question 7

What is sprinkled on piles of ore dust?

Answer 7

A liquid packed with suitable micro-organisms.

Question 8

What are the main factors that keep this process efficient?

Answer 8

Temperature, pH and humidity.

Question 9

What reactions are involved?

Answer 9

Combustion and Displacement.

Question 10

Name 2 positives about Bioleaching.

Answer 10

1) Produces less super dioxide emissions than smelting
2) Simpler process than smelting which enquires fewer staff to operate reducing costs
3) Used to extract copper from low grade ores which are unsuitable for smelting

Question 11

Name 2 negatives for Bioleaching.

Answer 11

1) Process is very slow, takes companies a long time to earn money
2) Process produces toxic chemicals which may run off into rivers and other sources of drinking water
3) Once started takes a long time to stop should a pollution problem arise.

Question 12

Why is a low yeild important?

Answer 12

As the lower the yeild the less of the solution you are losing.