Chapter 7: Problem 8

Discuss various methods used for concentration of ores.

Short Answer

Expert verified

The main methods for concentration of ores are Gravity Separation or Hydraulic Washing (Levigation), Froth Floatation Method, Magnetic Separation, and Leaching. Each method operates on different principles based on the properties of the ore and gangue particles.

Step by step solution

Gravity Separation or Hydraulic Washing (Levigation)

This method makes use of the differences in weight between the ore and the gangue particles. The ore particles are washed with water to remove the lighter gangue particles. This process is commonly used in heavy oxide ores.

Froth Floatation Method

In this method, the crushed ore is mixed with water and a frothing agent which forms a froth. The oil used in this process preferentially wets the sulphide mineral particles, while the gangue particles are wetted by water. As a result, the mineral particles become light and rise to the top in the form of froth which is skimmed off.

Magnetic Separation

This method is used when the ore particles are magnetic in nature, while the gangue particles are non-magnetic. A magnet is used to separate the magnetic ore particles.

Leaching

Leaching is a chemical process where the ore is reacted with a suitable reagent which dissolves the ore but not the impurities. Later, the solution containing the ore substance is filtered off and the metal is obtained by further treatment.

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Discuss various methods used for concentration of ores.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Gravity Separation or Hydraulic Washing (Levigation)

Froth Floatation Method

Magnetic Separation

Leaching

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