Step 1: Sequence of Ore Processing
Ore processing begins with the physical methods of size reduction. The goal is to liberate valuable minerals from the gangue. The standard sequence includes:
% Option
(A) Crushing: The first mechanical step, used to break large ore chunks into smaller pieces.
% Option
(B) Grinding: Follows crushing; reduces ore to finer particles for further concentration.
% Option
(C) Concentration methods: Techniques like magnetic separation, froth flotation, and gravity separation follow to enrich the ore.
Step 2: Evaluating the Options
- Crushing is the primary step to reduce ore size initially.
- Grinding occurs after crushing to further reduce size.
- Magnetic separation and Jigging are concentration methods, not primary steps.
Conclusion: The first or primary step in ore processing is crushing.