Metal Ores Flashcards
How are metal ores
Oxidation
How are ores extracted that are less reactive than carbon
Heat with carbon as carbon only takes oxygen away from metals that are less reactive
How are ores extracted if they are more reactive than carbon
Electrolysis
Order of reactivity series
Potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, aluminium, CARBON, zinc, iron, tin, lead
How is aluminium electrolysed
Molten aluminium oxide is used as electrolyte and aluminium atoms sink to the bottom
What are the main properties of metals
Strong,
Conduct heat
Conduct electricity
What is aluminium used for
Window frames, electrical cables and aircraft as it is corrosion resistant and forms strong alloys
What is copper used for
Electrical wires and pipes as it is strong and is a good conductor of electricity
What causes corrosion
Oxidisation
How does iron rust
Iron + oxygen + water -> hydrated iron (|||) oxide
What is an alloy
Mixture of two or more metals
What is a smart alloy (nitinol)
Returns to original shape when heated
Used for glasses frames and stents for damaged blood vessels
Positives or recycling
Uses less resources
Less energy
Cheaper
Makes less rubbish
