MasteryExams
General Science • ChemistryMedium

Which of the following metals is extracted primarily from the ore bauxite?

A. Iron
B. Copper
C. Aluminum✓ Correct Answer
D. Zinc

💡 Solution & Explanation

Aluminum is commercially extracted from bauxite, which is a hydrated aluminum oxide mineral, using the Hall-Heroult electrolytic reduction process. Iron is primarily extracted from hematite or magnetite ores through blast furnace reduction with carbon monoxide. Copper and zinc are obtained from sulfide and carbonate ores such as chalcopyrite and sphalerite. Aluminum extraction requires large amounts of electrical energy to break strong chemical bonds in alumina.

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