General Principles and Process of Isolations of Elements – Solutions

1) Copper can be extracted by hydrometallurgy but not zinc. Explain.

Solution

The metals low in the electrochemical series can be extracted easily by hydrometallurgy as their ions can be easily reduced by common reducing agents.

Copper can be easily extracted by hydrometallurgy as it low in the electrochemical series, and the copper ion obtained can be easily reduced. On zinc the other hand, zinc, being high in the electrochemical series , cannot be extracted easily by hydrometallurgy as it cannot be reduced due to its higher negative reduction potential value.

2) What is the role of depressant in froth floatation  process?

Solution

A depressant is used in the froth floatation process to prevent the formation of froth by some constituents of the ore, there by separating them from the useful part of the ore.