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Differentiate between pyrometallurgy and hydrometallurgy. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question (c) - 2008
Question (c)
Differentiate between pyrometallurgy and hydrometallurgy.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Differentiate between pyrometallurgy and hydrometallurgy. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question (c) - 2008
Step 1
Pyrometallurgy
Answer
Pyrometallurgy is a process that employs heat energy to extract metals from their ores. This method is typically used during the smelting of metal ores, particularly iron ore in a blast furnace. The process involves heating the ore to high temperatures, allowing for the separation of the metal from the ore, usually through reduction reactions that utilize carbon or other reducing agents.
Step 2
Hydrometallurgy
Answer
Hydrometallurgy encompasses the extraction of metals from their ores using aqueous solutions. This process often involves leaching, where the ore is treated with solvents to dissolve the desired metals, which can then be recovered from the solution through various techniques such as precipitation or electrowinning. It is a more environmentally friendly alternative compared to pyrometallurgy and is particularly useful for low-grade ores.