Step 1: Understanding zone refining.
Zone refining is a technique used to purify metals, especially semiconductors like germanium. The process involves heating a small region of the metal and moving this molten zone along the metal. Impurities move to the cooler part of the metal and can be removed.
Step 2: Analyzing the options. (A) Germanium: Correct — Germanium is commonly purified using the zone refining method. (B) Tin: Tin is not typically purified using zone refining; it is usually refined by other methods. (C) Copper: Copper is generally purified using electrolysis, not zone refining. (D) Bismuth: Bismuth is also not refined using zone refining.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (A) Germanium.