Bauxite & Cryolite: Industrial Aluminium Extraction
15 Questions · 24 Total Marks · Sections A, B & C
Industrial Electrolysis Cell — Reference Diagram
The Ore
Name the main ore from which aluminium is extracted.
State the chemical name of the main aluminium compound found in purified bauxite.
Give the chemical formula of aluminium oxide.
Name two impurities that are removed from bauxite during purification.
Suggest why aluminium cannot be extracted from its ore by reduction with carbon (like iron).
The Method
State the method used to extract aluminium from aluminium oxide.
In the electrolysis of aluminium oxide: (a) Name the electrode at which aluminium is produced. (b) Explain why this electrode produces aluminium.
Write the half-equation for the reaction at the anode during the electrolysis of aluminium oxide.
State why the carbon anodes need to be replaced frequently during the electrolysis of aluminium oxide.
Explain why the aluminium oxide must be in the molten or dissolved state for electrolysis to work.
Cryolite
Name the substance dissolved in aluminium oxide during industrial electrolysis.
State TWO reasons why cryolite is added to aluminium oxide in the industrial extraction of aluminium.
Pure aluminium oxide melts at approximately 2050 °C. Explain why this temperature is a problem for industrial extraction.
Describe the industrial setup for extracting aluminium by electrolysis. In your answer, include: the state of the electrolyte, the material of the electrodes, and what is produced at each electrode.
Explain why the extraction of aluminium is expensive. Give THREE reasons.
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