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how are less reactive metals extracted explain with an example ?

**How Are Less Reactive Metals Extracted? Explained with an Example**

When it comes to extracting metals, reactivity plays a crucial role. Metals that are less reactive than carbon, such as iron, can be extracted through reduction with carbon. On the other hand, more reactive metals like aluminum require electrolysis to extract them. But how are less reactive metals extracted?

Let’s take mercury as an example. Mercury is a less reactive metal that lies at the bottom of the reactivity series. To extract mercury, its ore is roasted in the air to form mercury (II) oxide. This oxide is then heated to around 300°C, causing it to decompose and form mercury metal.

This process of reduction by heat alone is unique to less reactive metals like mercury, copper, and silver. These metals do not require electrolysis or chemical reactions to extract them, making the process simpler and more cost-effective.

In contrast, more reactive metals like zinc and iron require more complex extraction processes, involving chemical reactions and electrolysis. For instance, iron is extracted from its ore through a blast furnace, where it is reduced by carbon to form pure iron.

In conclusion, the extraction of less reactive metals like mercury, copper, and silver is a relatively simple process that involves reduction by heat alone. This process is made possible by the low reactivity of these metals, which allows them to be extracted without the need for complex chemical reactions or electrolysis.

Sources:

* BBC Bitesize: The Reactivity Series
* GeeksforGeeks: Extraction of Moderately and Less Reactive Metals
* YouTube: How are the less reactive metals (which are quite low in the reactivity series) extracted? Explain
* Tutorialspoint: How are the less reactive metals (which are quite low in the reactivity series) extracted? Explain with the help of an example.

Note: The article is written in English. If you would like me to write it in French, please let me know!