Question

Which of the following are halide ores?
This question has multiple correct options
A. Siderite
B. Cryolite
C. Fluorspar
D. Iron pyrite

Answer 1

Hint: We know that ore is a substance from which minerals are extracted. The scientific process of extraction of minerals from ore is termed as metallurgy. Along with the minerals ore also contains undesired materials which are termed as gangue.

Complete step by step answer: First we discuss the halide ore. The metallic halides are named as halide ore. They are very few in nature. The most common halide ore found on earth is chloride.
Now, we discuss the options one by one.
Option A is Siderite. The composition of siderite is ${\rm{FeC}}{{\rm{O}}_{\rm{3}}}$. So, it is the carbonate ore. Therefore, it is not a halide ore.
Option B is cryolite. The composition of cryolite is ${\rm{N}}{{\rm{a}}_{\rm{3}}}{\rm{Al}}{{\rm{F}}_{\rm{6}}}$. So, it is a halides ore.
Option C is Fluorspar. The composition of fluorspar is ${\rm{Ca}}{{\rm{F}}_{\rm{2}}}$. So, it is a halide ore.
Option D is iron pyrite. The composition of iron pyrites is ${\rm{Fe}}{{\rm{S}}_{\rm{2}}}$. So, it is a sulphide ore.
So, we find that cryolite and fluorspar are halide ores. Hence, option B and C is correct.

Additional Information: The process removal of undesired substances (gangue) from the ore is termed as concentration of ore. It involved many steps and choosing of these steps is based on the difference in physical properties metal present in the ore and the gangue. Some of these processes are hydraulic washing, magnetic preparation etc.

Note: There are many steps involved in extraction and isolation of metals from ores. First step is concentration of ore, second step is isolation of metal from its concentrated ore and the last process in purification of metal.