4.1.3-4 - Extraction of Metals & Oxidation + Reduction (electrons)

How are unreactive metals found in Earth?

In their natural state.

How can metals less reactive than carbon be extracted?

Reduction with carbon. Carbon displaces the metal in the metal oxide - gets oxidized to carbon oxides. Metal from the metal oxide gets reduced to the pure metal.

How are metals more reactive than carbon extracted?

By electrolysis.

How are oxidation and reduction defined in terms of electron transfer?

• Oxidation - loss of electrons

• Reduction - gain of electrons