Question

Which of the following ore is best concentrated by the froth flotation method?
(A) Galena
(B) Cassiterite
(C) Magnetite
(D) Zinc blende

Answer 1

Hint: In order to find which of the following ore is best concentrated by the froth flotation method, we must first have an idea about what a froth flotation process is. The Froth flotation process is the process that is used to separate the hydrophobic material from the hydrophilic material.

Complete step by step answer:
Let us understand the froth flotation process. The Froth flotation process is a process that is used to separate the hydrophobic material from the hydrophilic material. In the froth flotation process, sulphide ores are usually concentrated.
Now let us move to the given question.
- Option (A) Galena is also known as the lead glance. It is present in the form of Lead (II) sulphide, \[PbS\]. As the galena ore contains sulphide group, therefore galena is best concentrated by the froth flotation method. Galena is the correct answer.
- Option (B) Cassiterite is a tin oxide mineral which is having a chemical formula of \[Sn{O_2}\]. As there is no sulphide group present in the Cassiterite it cannot be concentrated by the froth flotation method. Cassiterite is an incorrect answer.
- Option (C) Magnetite is a rock mineral which is having a chemical formula of \[F{e_3}{O_4}\]. On seeing the chemical formula, we can say that there is no sulphide group present in the Magnetite. Therefore, it cannot be concentrated by the froth flotation method. Magnetite is an incorrect answer.
- Option (D) Zinc blende is a mineral which is having a chemical formula of \[ZnS\]. On seeing the chemical formula, we can say that there is sulphide group present in the Zinc blende. Therefore, it cannot be concentrated by the froth flotation method. Zinc blende is the correct answer.
So, the correct answer is “Option A and D”.

Note: We have to remember that there are two types of froth flotation process, they are:
- Direct flotation process
- Reverse froth flotation process.