Test: Iron Extraction - JAMB MCQ

Hematite (Fe₂O₃) is an example of an oxide ore of iron. It is a common iron ore that is widely used in the iron and steel industry.

Roasting is the process of heating iron ore in the presence of air to remove impurities, such as sulphur, carbonates, and moisture. It is an important step in the extraction of iron.

Silicon dioxide (SiO₂), also known as silica, is the main impurity found in iron ore. It is commonly associated with iron ore deposits and needs to be removed during the extraction process.

The reduction of iron ore to iron metal is achieved by using carbon monoxide (CO) as the reducing agent. The carbon monoxide reacts with the iron oxide in the ore, reducing it to elemental iron.

This equation represents the reduction of iron ore (Fe₂O₃) using carbon monoxide (CO). The reaction produces three moles of iron and two moles of carbon dioxide.

The process used to convert iron(III) oxide (Fe₂O₃) into iron metal is called reduction. Reduction involves the removal of oxygen from a compound.

The molten iron obtained from the blast furnace is called pig iron. It contains a high percentage of carbon and other impurities and is brittle in nature.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is the main reducing agent used in the extraction of iron from its ore. It reacts with the iron oxide to remove oxygen and obtain elemental iron.

Bessemerization is the process of converting pig iron into steel by removing impurities, such as carbon, silicon, and phosphorus. This process involves blowing air through the molten pig iron.

The blast furnace method for extracting iron has the disadvantages of high energy consumption, low purity of iron obtained, and the generation of toxic gases as by-products.