Step 1: What is Liberation?
Liberation in metallurgy refers to the process of breaking down ore particles so that the valuable minerals are freed from the surrounding gangue material. This step is essential before concentration can be performed effectively.
Step 2: Purpose of Liberation
The goal of liberation is to ensure that:
- Each particle contains predominantly one mineral phase.
- The separation (concentration) techniques such as froth flotation or magnetic separation can efficiently isolate the desired component.
Step 3: Misinterpretation of Other Options
- (B) Sizing refers to screening or classification after crushing/grinding.
- (C) Concentration is the step that follows liberation.
- (D) Oxidising is a chemical treatment, not a mechanical separation process.
Conclusion: Liberation is specifically aimed at the separation of particles, especially valuable minerals from gangue.