11.3.1 Extraction of Metals True/False

Ores are naturally occurring minerals from which metals can be extracted.

An ore is a rock that contains a metal or metal compound in sufficient quantity for metal extraction.

Most metals are found in their elemental form in rocks.

Metals lower in the reactivity series, such as iron and copper, are generally easier to extract from their ores than more reactive metals like potassium and sodium.

The method of obtaining a metal from a metal compound is influenced by the metal\’s position in the reactivity series.

Gold and silver are highly reactive metals.

Large lumps of ore are first crushed and ground up by heavy machinery during the extraction process.

The method used to extract a metal from its ore depends on its position in the reactivity series.

Metals lower in the reactivity series, such as zinc and below, can be extracted by heating with carbon.

Electrolysis of the molten, purified ore is an inexpensive method used for extracting highly reactive metals like sodium.

Metals in the middle of the reactivity series, such as iron and zinc, can be extracted by reducing the metal oxide with carbon.

Metals higher in the reactivity series, such as aluminum and above, are extracted by electrolysis.