Question

How are the less reactive metals (which are quite low in the reactivity series) extracted ?Explain with the help of an example.

Answer 1

The less reactive metals are extracted by the reduction of their oxides by heat alone. Example: Mercury (II) sulphide ore is roasted in air when mercury (II) oxide is formed. When this mercury (II) oxide is heated to about 300⁰ C, it decomposes to form mercury metal.