1. Concentration of ore:
Concentration of ore is the process of separating valuable minerals from impurities or gangue.
2. Froth flotation method:
Froth flotation is a widely used method for concentrating ores, especially sulfide ores like galena (PbS). In this method, ore particles are mixed with water and chemicals that make the valuable minerals hydrophobic (repellent to water). Air is blown into the mixture, creating bubbles that carry the hydrophobic particles to the surface, forming a froth, which is then skimmed off.
3. Other methods:
- Electrolysis is a method used for purification of metals, not for concentration.
- Distillation and Sublimation are used for separating liquids or solid substances based on their boiling or sublimation points, not for ore concentration.