Extracting metals from their ores

2 marks · Normal

State two differences between extracting iron and extracting gold from the Earth's crust.

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1. Iron is usually extracted from its ore by reduction with carbon; gold is usually found as the native metal and does not need extraction from compounds. 2. Iron is more reactive than gold and is found as compounds; gold is unreactive and found as the metal.

Must show: Extraction method for iron vs. gold, Form in which the metal is found

Also accept: Iron extracted from ore/gold found pure; Iron is reactive/gold is unreactive

Common mistakes: Saying both metals need reduction; Mixing up reactivity

Show mark scheme and worked solution

Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · Identifies and describes a valid difference in extraction method.

B1 · 1 mark · Identifies and describes how the form/reactivity affects how the metal is found.

Worked solution

1. Iron is extracted by reduction with carbon, gold is found uncombined as a native metal. 2. Iron is reactive and found as a compound, gold is unreactive and found as the metal.