Question

The primary function of a blast furnace is to

• A. Produce steel directly
• B. Convert pig iron to steel
• C. Reduce iron ore to molten iron
• D. Remove carbon from iron

Hint:

Logic Tip: Remember the sequence: Dirt (Ore) $\rightarrow$ Blast Furnace $\rightarrow$ Pig Iron $\rightarrow$ Steel Furnace $\rightarrow$ Steel. The blast furnace's only job is getting the raw iron out of the dirt.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The blast furnace is a large-scale chemical reactor used in the extractive metallurgy of iron. It operates continuously to produce liquid metal from mineral ores.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
The process is a chemical reduction. The generalized reaction involves removing oxygen from iron oxide: $$Fe_2O_3 + 3CO \rightarrow 2Fe + 3CO_2$$
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The blast furnace is fed with iron ore, coke (fuel and reducing agent), and limestone (flux). Hot air is "blasted" into the bottom. The coke reacts to form carbon monoxide, which reduces the iron ore into molten iron, also known as "pig iron." Pig iron contains high carbon content and must be further processed in a separate furnace (like a Basic Oxygen Furnace) to become steel.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The function of a blast furnace is to reduce iron ore to molten iron.