Ore: GCSE Chemistry Definition
Written by: Richard Boole
Reviewed by: Philippa Platt
Published
Read time
2 minutes
Contents
What is an ore?
In GCSE Chemistry, an ore is a rock that contains enough metal, or metal compound, to make extracting the metal financially worthwhile. An ore is often a metal oxide, and the metal can be extracted by different reduction reactions. Common ores include:
Name of ore | Metal compound | Compound formula |
|---|---|---|
Haematite | Iron(III) oxide | Fe2O3 |
Bauxite | Aluminium oxide | Al2O3 |
Rutile | Titanium dioxide | TiO2 |
How are ores extracted?
The extraction method used depends on the position of the metal in the reactivity series.
Metal | Extraction method |
|---|---|
(Most reactive metals) Potassium Sodium Lithium Calcium Magnesium Aluminium | Extracted by electrolysis of molten chloride or molten oxide Large amount of electricity required so expensive process |
Zinc Iron | Extracted by heating with reducing agent such as carbon or carbon monoxide |
Copper Silver Gold (Least reactive metals) | Found as pure elements (Copper may be extracted by heating with carbon or hydrogen) |
Bioleaching and phytomining
Bioleaching and phytomining are alternative methods of metal extraction, commonly used where land is contaminated or there are very low concentrations of metals.
Bioleaching uses bacteria to extract metals, like copper, from low-grade ores. The bacteria produce a solution of the metal ions, which can then be purified through processes such as electrolysis.
Phytomining involves growing plants that absorb metal compounds from the soil through their roots. The plants are then harvested, burned, and the ash is processed to extract the metal.
Ore Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams
To explore cracking further, you should check out the revision notes on ores and metal extraction and practise our exam questions to ensure success. Flashcards on the reactivity of metals are also a great way to revise the wider topic before an exam.
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