CHEMISTRY

JAMB 2001 - Question 37

Chemistry 2001 JAMB Past Questions - Question 37: The main impurity in iron ore during the extraction of iron is

Choose the correct answers from the options given.
The main impurity in iron ore during the extraction of iron is
A:
B:
C:
D:
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Correct Answer

A

Explanation

The main impurity found in iron ore during the extraction of iron is silica, in the form of silicon dioxide (SiO2). Silica is commonly found in nature as quartz and is often present in iron ore as gangue. During the extraction process, the iron ore is usually roasted in a blast furnace with limestone and coke (carbon) to remove impurities and produce pig iron. The silica in the iron ore combines with the limestone to form a molten slag, which can be separated from the molten iron. This process is known as fluxing and is crucial in the production of iron.