Question

Titanium is produced by:

• A. Magnesium reduction of TiCl\(_4\)
• B. Electrolytic reduction of TiCl\(_4\)
• C. Thermal dissociation of TiCl\(_4\)
• D. Calcium reduction of TiCl\(_4\)

Hint:

Titanium is extracted via the \textbf{Kroll process} by reducing TiCl\(_4\) with magnesium — not by electrolysis or thermal dissociation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Kroll Process — Titanium Extraction
Titanium is primarily extracted using the Kroll process, in which: - Titanium tetrachloride (TiCl\(_4\)) is reduced by magnesium metal, - This reduction is carried out in an inert atmosphere (usually argon) at high temperature (~800–850°C). \[ \text{TiCl}_4 + 2\text{Mg} \rightarrow \text{Ti} + 2\text{MgCl}_2 \] Step 2: Why Magnesium is Used
Magnesium has a strong affinity for chlorine and can effectively reduce TiCl\(_4\) to pure titanium metal. The process avoids the use of carbon, which could form titanium carbide and contaminate the product. Step 3: Elimination of Incorrect Options
- Electrolytic reduction: Not used for titanium due to its high reactivity.
- Thermal dissociation: TiCl\(_4\) is thermally stable; dissociation is not feasible.
- Calcium reduction: Used in laboratory-scale methods, not commercial production. Conclusion: Titanium is commercially produced by magnesium reduction of TiCl\(_4\) in the Kroll process.