6.1.1 extracting metals

Subdecks (3)

Cards (10)

  • Electrolysis is used to extract metals that are higher than carbon in the reactivity series
  • Carbon is used to extract metals if they are lower than carbon in the reactivity series. Extracted using a reduction reaction.
  • Alternative methods of metal extraction:
    • Phytomining - growing plants in contaminated land absorb copper ions as they grow. plants are harvested and burnt, producing ash which has high concentrations of copper compounds.
    • disadvantage: takes a lot longer than classic methods
  • Alternative methods of metal extraction:
    • Bioleaching - bacteria added to low-grade ores. bacteria breaks down ores to create solution rich in copper compounds known as leachate solution. can easily extract copper from leachate solution
    • disadvantage: slower process than classic methods