Describe, with the aid of a diagram, the process of flotation separation. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question b - 2019

Flotation separation is a method used in mineral processing to separate valuable minerals from ore. The process involves the following steps:

1. Preparation of the Ore: Fine particles of ore are added into large tanks containing water.

2. Introduction of Air and Reagents: Air is blown into the tank, creating bubbles. Additionally, flotation reagents are added. These reagents help to make the ore particles hydrophobic, meaning they will attach to the air bubbles.

3. Agitation: The contents of the tank are agitated, which facilitates interaction between the ore particles and the bubbles.

4. Attachment to Bubbles: The ore particles attach themselves to the bubbles due to their hydrophobic nature.

5. Rising to the Surface: The bubbles carrying the attached ore particles rise to the surface of the tank, forming a froth.

6. Collection of Froth: The froth is then skimmed off from the surface, which contains the concentrated ore.

7. Remaining Particles: The remaining fine particles that did not attach to the bubbles settle to the bottom of the tank.

The following diagram illustrates the flotation separation process:

In summary, flotation separation relies on the differences in hydrophobicity of the particles to achieve separation, where valuable minerals are concentrated and collected.