Question

The metal which is extracted by oxidation and subsequent reduction from its ore is:

• A. Ag
• B. Cu
• C. Fe
• D. Al

Hint:

In the cyanide process, silver is oxidized to a soluble complex and then reduced back to metal using zinc.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To find the metal extracted by oxidation and subsequent reduction from its ore, we need to understand the process generally used for the extraction of metals from their ores.

Here is a brief overview of the extraction methods for the given options:

1. Silver (Ag): Silver is extracted from its ores via a process known as the cyanide process, where silver sulfide is converted into silver metal. This involves oxidation of the ore and reduction to produce the metal.
2. Copper (Cu): Copper is usually extracted from its ores through a series of processes, including concentration, roasting, smelting, and finally, electrolysis. Cu^+ / Cu^2^+ is reduced to metallic Cu.
3. Iron (Fe): Iron is extracted from its ores, primarily from hematite, via a blast furnace. The main processes involve are reduction and smelting.
4. Aluminum (Al): Aluminum is extracted from bauxite ore using the Bayer process to obtain alumina, followed by the Hall-Héroult process where alumina is reduced to aluminum metal through electrolysis.

From the options provided, silver (Ag) is the correct answer as it is typically extracted using a process that involves oxidation and subsequent reduction. The ore, usually argentite (Ag₂S), is oxidized in the presence of oxygen, forming Ag₂O, which is then reduced using a reducing agent like sodium cyanide.

Therefore, the correct answer is Ag.