Almost all metals in nature are found as ionic compounds in ores instead of being in the pure state. Why? What must be done to a sample of ore to obtain a metal substance that has desirable properties?

Metals are found as ionic compounds in ores because they have a strong tendency to lose electrons and form positively charged ions (cations). Non-metal elements, on the other hand, have a strong tendency to gain electrons and form negatively charged ions (anions). When metals and non-metals combine, they form ionic compounds due to the transfer of electrons from metals to non-metals. An ore is a naturally occurring solid material from which a metal or valuable mineral can be extracted profitably. Ores contain minerals, which are composed of ionic compounds.

To obtain a metal substance with desirable properties from an ore, a process called metallurgy is performed. Metallurgy involves multiple steps, such as: 1. Concentration of the ore: This process aims to remove impurities and gangue (unwanted minerals) from the ore. Methods such as hydraulic washing, froth flotation, and magnetic separation can be used to concentrate the ore. 2. Reduction of the metal: After the concentration, the metal must be reduced from its compound state (like an oxide) to its elemental state. The reduction process can be achieved through chemical reactions or electrolysis. For example, in the case of iron, its oxide is reduced using carbon as a reducing agent. 3. Refining of the metal: After reduction, the metal might still contain some impurities. To obtain a pure sample of metal, the impurities must be removed. Refining methods include liquation, distillation, electrolytic refining, and zone refining. The specific methods used in the extraction process depend on the type of metal, its reactivity, and the type of ore. By undergoing this process, a metal can be extracted from its ore, and its desirable properties can be obtained.