Question

Which of the following metal’s ore can be concentrated by magnetic separation method?

• A. Aluminium
• B. Cadmium
• C. Iron
• D. Zinc

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The magnetic separation method is utilized in the concentration of ores that have magnetic properties. This technique involves the use of magnetic fields to separate magnetic materials from non-magnetic ones. Let us evaluate the given metals: 

• Aluminium: Bauxite is the primary ore of aluminium, and it is not magnetic.
• Cadmium: Typically found with zinc ores, cadmium is not magnetic.
• Iron: Its ores, such as magnetite (Fe₃O₄) and hematite, possess strong magnetic properties.
• Zinc: Zinc ores are non-magnetic.

Among the provided options, Iron is the metal whose ore, particularly magnetite, can be concentrated using magnetic separation due to its intrinsic magnetic properties.

Conclusion: The correct answer is Iron.

Answer 2

Iron ores, such as magnetite (Fe₃O₄), can be efficiently concentrated through a process known as magnetic separation. This technique relies on the magnetic properties of certain minerals to separate them from non-magnetic impurities. Magnetite, being naturally magnetic, responds to magnetic fields, making it possible to separate it from other minerals that do not possess magnetic properties.

During magnetic separation, the ore is first crushed and ground to a fine particle size. The finely ground magnetite ore is then passed through a magnetic separator, which uses a magnetic field to attract and remove the magnetic particles (magnetite) from the rest of the material. The non-magnetic impurities are left behind, resulting in a concentrated form of magnetite.

Magnetic separation is particularly useful for ores like magnetite, where the magnetic properties of the mineral allow for efficient extraction, saving time and energy compared to other methods like flotation or gravity separation. This process is commonly used in the mining industry to enhance the concentration of valuable minerals.