Extraction and Uses of Metals - Flashcards

Flashcards about extraction and uses of metals.

Where are most metals found, and how are unreactive metals found?

Most metals are found in ores. Unreactive ones like gold are found as pure elements.

Why is gold found as a pure metal but iron is not?

Gold is unreactive and doesn't form compounds. Iron is reactive and forms ores.

How is extraction linked to the reactivity series?

Less reactive than carbon -> use carbon (e.g., iron), More reactive than carbon -> use electrolysis (e.g., aluminium)

Why is iron extracted with carbon, but aluminium needs electrolysis?

Iron is less reactive than carbon; aluminium is more reactive, so carbon can't displace it.

What do you do when given info about an extraction method?

Use what you know about the reactivity series to explain why that method is used.

A metal is extracted using electrolysis. What does that tell you about it?

It's more reactive than carbon, so electrolysis is needed.

What are the uses of aluminium, copper, and steel?

Aluminium: Cans, aircraft - light and corrosion-resistant, Copper: Wires - good conductor, Steel: - Mild steel - car bodies - High-carbon - tools - Stainless - cutlery (rust-resistant)

Why is copper used in electrical wiring?

It's a good conductor and bends easily.

What is an alloy?

A mixture of a metal with other elements (usually metals or carbon).

Why is steel classed as an alloy?

It's a mix of iron with carbon or other elements.

Why are alloys harder than pure metals?

Different-sized atoms stop layers sliding, making the metal harder.

Why is stainless steel harder than pure iron?

It's an alloy; the mixed atoms stop the layers sliding.