alternative method of extracting metals

• What is the status of the Earth's resources of metal ores?

  They are limited
• Why are copper ores becoming scarce?

  Due to limited resources and high demand
• What are the new methods for extracting copper from low-grade ores?

  • Phytomining
  • Bioleaching
• What do phytomining and bioleaching avoid compared to traditional mining methods?

  They avoid digging, moving, and disposing of rock
• How does phytomining work?

  • Plants absorb metal compounds
  • Plants are harvested and burned
  • Ash produced contains metal compounds
• How does bioleaching work?

  • Bacteria produce leachate solutions
  • Leachate solutions contain metal compounds
• How can metal compounds obtained from bioleaching be processed?

  To obtain the metal
• What is one method to obtain copper from solutions of copper compounds?

  Using scrap iron for displacement
• What is another method to obtain copper from solutions of copper compounds?

  By electrolysis