Metal extraction is a reduction process because the extracted metal is in a bound state and has a positive valence. The addition of electrons converts cations into atoms or metals.
Metal extraction is always a reductive process. Metals have positive valences in the bound state, and cations are converted to atoms or metals by the addition of electrons. So by definition it is a reductive process.
Example - Mⁿ⁺ + ne⁻ → M
Mining is the process of extracting metal ores buried deep underground. Metal ores occur in varying amounts in the Earth's crust. By extracting metals from ores, minerals in the ground can be used. Ore is very different from the finished metal you see in buildings and bridges. Ore consists of the desired metallic compounds and impurities and a geological material called gangue. The recovery of metals and their separation takes place in several main steps.
- Ore Concentration - Here the ore is separated from soil impurities.
- Separation of metals from concentrated ores – Here the ores are converted to their oxide form and then reduced. The steps involved are either calcination or roasting, followed by heating with a reducing agent.
- Metal Purification – Here the metal is purified for practical purposes.
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