Question

The process of reduction of a metal oxide by carbon or carbon monoxide to the metal is called

• A. Smelting
• B. Roasting
• C. Calcination
• D. Leaching

Hint:

Smelting = reduction of ores with carbon/CO; Roasting = heating in air; Calcination = heating without air.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Recall metallurgical process.
Smelting is the process in which a metal oxide is reduced to the free metal using carbon (coke) or carbon monoxide in a furnace.
Step 2: Analyze options.
- Roasting: heating sulfide ores in presence of oxygen, not reduction.
- Calcination: heating ores in absence of air, used to remove volatile impurities.
- Leaching: extraction using chemical solvents.
- Smelting: correct, involves reduction with carbon/CO.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Hence, the process is called Smelting.