Metallurgy
Metallurgy involves various processes for extracting metals from ores, which are naturally occurring minerals. These metals can be found in their native state, such as gold and platinum, or in combined forms as ores like oxides, sulfides, or carbonates. The chapter defines essential terms like ore, gangue, flux, and slag, which are crucial for understanding the extraction process.
The steps for extracting metals include:
1. Concentration of Ore: Removing impurities from the ore using methods like hydraulic washing, magnetic separation, froth flotation, and leaching.
2. Reduction: Extracting the metal from the concentrated ore through reduction reactions using carbon or electrolysis.
3. Refining: Purifying the extracted metal, commonly through electrolytic refining.
Additionally, the chapter introduces the extraction methods based on metal reactivity, illustrating that more reactive metals require electrolysis, while less reactive metals can be derived from roasting or calcination. The section also discusses alloys and their purpose in enhancing material properties.