Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry · Spec 2.22C-2.24C
Extraction of Metals
How metals are extracted from their ores, linked to the reactivity series.
Chemistry revision video
Extraction of Metals
Prefer to watch on YouTube? Open this video on YouTube.
Spec 2.22C-2.24C
What you need to know
- Link the extraction method to reactivity
- Describe extraction by reduction with carbon
- Explain why reactive metals need electrolysis
Active recall
Quick check
Answer each question before opening the answer.
How does a metal's reactivity decide how it is extracted?
Metals less reactive than carbon are extracted by reduction with carbon; metals more reactive than carbon are extracted by electrolysis.
Why is gold found as the pure metal in the ground?
It is very unreactive, so it does not react to form compounds.
Chemistry video companion
Keep your notes and exam practice together
The free Chemistry workbook follows every video in specification order.