General Science • ChemistryMedium
In the extraction of iron from its oxide ores in a blast furnace, what is the primary role of limestone added to the charge?
A. To act as a reducing agent converting ferric oxide directly to iron
B. To decompose into calcium oxide and flux acidic silica impurities forming slag✓ Correct Answer
C. To supply oxygen gas required for the combustion of coke fuel
D. To increase the melting point of the metal charge inside the furnace
💡 Solution & Explanation
Limestone decomposes thermally inside a blast furnace to form calcium oxide, which acts as a basic flux reacting with acidic silica impurities present in the ore to form molten calcium silicate slag that floats on liquid iron. Carbon monoxide serves as the primary reducing agent, and coke provides thermal energy. Slag removal protects the molten metal from reoxidation.
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