Question

Why is cryolite ore used during the extraction of Al metal?

Hint:

Cryolite is used in the extraction of aluminum to lower the melting point of aluminum oxide and improve the process efficiency.

Answer 1

Step 1: Purpose of Cryolite.
Cryolite (Na₃AlF₆) is used in the extraction of aluminum through the Hall-Héroult process. Its main function is to lower the melting point of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) and increase its conductivity during electrolysis.
Step 2: Advantages. - Cryolite helps in dissolving Al₂O₃ at a lower temperature, reducing the energy consumption of the process.
- It also allows for the extraction of aluminum metal at a much lower temperature (around 950°C) than pure Al₂O₃ would require (around 2000°C).