Extraction of metals from ores

The ease of extracting metals from their ores is closely related to the reactivity of the metal. Metals higher in the reactivity series are more reactive and form stronger bonds with other elements in their ores, making extraction more challenging. Conversely, less reactive metals are often easier to obtain.

Highly Reactive Metals

E.g., Potassium, Sodium, Calcium, Magnesium, Aluminium

• These metals form very stable compounds with oxygen or other elements.

• Extraction Process:

  • Requires electrolysis of molten compounds.

  • Example: Aluminium is extracted from bauxite (Al₂O₃) via electrolysis.

Moderately reactive metals

E.g., Zinc, Iron, Tin

• These metals form compounds that are less stable than highly reactive metals.

• Extraction Process:

  • Can often be extracted using chemical reduction with carbon.

  • Example: Iron is extracted from haematite (Fe₂O₃) in a blast furnace using carbon (in the form of coke).

Unreactive metals