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Question:

Which of the following ores can be concentrated by froth floatation method?

Solution:

Froth floatation is the process employed for the extraction of metals from their sulphide ores like ZnS. Sulphide ores are preferentially wetted by oil, while gangue particles are wetted by water. The process involves mixing finely powdered ore with water and adding a suitable collector (e.g., pine oil). Air is then blown through the mixture, creating froth. The sulphide ore particles adhere to the air bubbles and rise to the surface as froth, while the gangue sinks to the bottom. The froth containing the concentrated ore is then collected and the ore is separated.