Question

Cyanide process is used in the extraction of (a) \(\mathrm{Cu}\) (b) \(\mathrm{Al}\) (c) \(\mathrm{Zn}\) (d) \(\mathrm{Ag}\)

Short answer

The cyanide process is used in the extraction of (d) Ag.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Cyanide Process

The cyanide process, also known as cyanidation, is a method used for extracting gold and silver from their ores. It involves the treatment of the ore with a dilute cyanide solution, which dissolves the silver and gold contained in the ore.

Evaluate the Options

Now that we know the cyanide process is used for extracting gold and silver, examine the given options: (a) Cu – Copper, (b) Al – Aluminum, (c) Zn – Zinc, (d) Ag – Silver. Only one of these metals, silver, commonly uses the cyanide process for its extraction.

Conclusion Based on the Process

Since the cyanide process is used primarily for extracting silver and gold, and among the options provided, silver (Ag) is listed, we conclude that the cyanide process is used for extracting silver.

Key concepts

Silver Extraction

Silver extraction is a process used to obtain pure silver from its ore. One common method to do this is known as the cyanide process. Silver, often found in ores mixed with other metals, requires separation and purification. The process starts with crushing the ore into fine particles. After that, the ore is mixed with a sodium cyanide solution. This solution helps dissolve the silver, forming a new compound that is easier to isolate. The silver can then be recovered from this solution, usually by a process called precipitation. During precipitation, silver is returned to its metallic form. By using the cyanide process, miners can efficiently extract significant amounts of pure silver from large quantities of ore. Understanding the cyanide process and its role in silver extraction helps clarify why it's commonly used in industries.

Cyanidation

Cyanidation is a vital technique in the field of metal extraction, specifically used for gold and silver. This method involves using cyanide, a potentially dangerous chemical, under controlled conditions to extract metals efficiently. Here's how it generally works:

• The ore is crushed to enhance the surface area for chemical reactions.
• A dilute cyanide solution is added to the ore.
• Cyanide bonds with silver or gold in the ore, forming a soluble complex.
• The subsequent complex makes it easier to separate and extract silver or gold.

To ensure safety and effectiveness, cyanidation requires careful handling. The use of airtight equipment and protective measures keeps the process secure and environmentally conscious. Despite its efficiency, cyanidation raises environmental concerns. It requires substantial care to prevent cyanide from contaminating nearby land and water. Responsible operators use detoxification processes to neutralize any remaining cyanide before disposal.

Metal Extraction Methods

Metal extraction methods are techniques used to obtain metals from their natural mineral deposits. These methods aim to purify metals, turning them into useful products. Different metals require different methods based on their chemical properties. Here are some common metal extraction methods:

• Pyrometallurgy: Uses high temperatures to extract metals, typically involving smelting or roasting.
• Hydrometallurgy: Employs aqueous chemistry for metal recovery, including leaching processes.
• Electrometallurgy: Uses electrical energy to facilitate metal extraction and purification, like electrolysis.
• Bioleaching: Utilizes bacteria to extract metal from ores.

The cyanide process fits into the hydrometallurgy category, as it involves dissolving metals in a chemical solution for extraction. Each method comes with its own advantages and environmental considerations. Understanding these methods helps us appreciate the complexities of transforming raw materials into useful metals.