Understanding the Concept:
Gold extraction uses cyanide leaching, where gold forms soluble complex.
Step 1: Reaction:
\[
4Au + 8CN^- + O_2 + 2H_2O \rightarrow 4[Au(CN)_2]^- + 4OH^-
\]
Step 2: Key property:
Gold forms stable, soluble complex ions.
Final Answer:
Thus, extraction is based on complex formation.