Question

The method of concentration of the ore that makes use of difference in density between ore and impurities is called_________
A. Levigation
B. Leaching
C. Magnetic separation
D. Liquidation.

Answer 1

Hint: The process of separation of iron and the impurities from the iron ore on the basis of density requires the separation based on the difference in specific gravities of the metallic ore and gangue particles present in the ore.

Step by step answer: A naturally occurring rock or the sediments in the earth crust which contains valuable minerals in them is called an Ore. Along with the valuable minerals these ore also consist large quantities of foreign particles or the impurities in them called gangue particles. In order to extract the metal from the ore it is important to get it separated metal and the gangue particles present in the ore.

There are various methods to separate the metal and the gangue from the ore based on their physical and chemical property. They can be handpicked, washed away and other methods which are used to separate them

Based on the difference in the density of the metallic ore and gangue present in the ore Lavigation treatment is used. In this process powdered ore is treated with a steam of running water where the lighter gangue particles are washed away and the heavier ore particles are left behind in the ore. For the steam of running water hydraulic strong pressure is created which helps the gangue particles to get wiped away leaving behind the metal in the ore.

Therefore the correct option is (A) Lavigation


Note: Lavigation is used for the difference in the specific gravity of the metal and the ore whereas the magnetic separation is used when there is difference in the magnetic behavior of either gangue or the metal.