Froth flotation is a widely used process for concentrating sulfide ores such as zinc blende (ZnS), copper pyrites (CuFeS\(_2\)), and galena (PbS).
In this method, powdered ore is mixed with water and special chemicals that make the ore particles hydrophobic (water-repelling).
Air is then blown through the mixture, causing the hydrophobic ore particles to attach to bubbles and float to the surface, where they can be skimmed off.
This technique effectively separates valuable sulfide minerals from the gangue (waste) particles.