C6.1.6 Extracting Metals

Question 1

Ore definition

Answer 1

A rock or mineral that contains enough metal to make it economical to extract the metal
Value of the metal is more than the cost of extracting it
Different metal compounds are found in different ores e.g. malachite, haematite

Question 2

Redox reaction

Answer 2

Reduction + oxidation reaction
Two reactions occur at the same time
OIL RIG
Oxidation gain of oxygen + loss of electrons
Reduction loss of oxygen + gain of electrons

Question 3

How is copper extracted? - experiment

Answer 3

1. Mix 2 powders in a crucible replace the lid
   Lid must be kept on the crucible during heating to stop the powders escaping and to stop air getting in (because carbon would burn)
2. Heat it strongly
3. After several minutes allow crucible to cool
4. When crucible is cool transfer its contents to a beaker of water. Copper sinks to the bottom while excess charcoal is suspended in the water
5. Separate the copper by washing it

• wear eye protection