Question

What is the other term used for thermal reductions?

• A. Hydrometallurgy
• B. Leaching
• C. Froth flotation
• D. Pyrometallurgy

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

In chemistry, the term "thermal reductions" refers to processes involving the use of heat to bring about the reduction of metal ores. The correct alternative term for such processes is Pyrometallurgy.

Pyrometallurgy involves using high temperatures to extract and purify metals from their ores, achieving chemical transformations that are essential in metallurgy. This distinguishes it from other methods such as:

• Hydrometallurgy: Uses aqueous solutions to extract metals from ores, without the application of heat.
• Leaching: A process of extracting metals by dissolving them with solvents.
• Froth flotation: A mineral processing technique that separates particles based on their surface properties using bubbles.

Answer 2

Pyrometallurgy refers to a set of thermal processes used for extracting metals from their ores by applying high temperatures. These processes involve heating the ore to a high temperature in the presence of a reducing agent, air, or other chemicals, depending on the specific metal being extracted. Pyrometallurgy is commonly used for extracting metals such as iron, copper, lead, and zinc.

Some common pyrometallurgical methods include smelting, roasting, and refining. In smelting, the ore is heated with a reducing agent (such as carbon) to extract the metal. In roasting, ores containing sulfides are heated in the presence of oxygen to remove sulfur and form oxides of the metal. Refining often involves heating the metal to remove impurities and obtain a purer form.

Pyrometallurgy is an essential part of the metallurgical industry, as it allows for the efficient extraction of metals from ores, which are often found in nature in a combined form with other elements. The high temperatures used in these processes enable the breakdown of the ore into its constituent components, allowing for the isolation of valuable metals.