Q1: Coke is added in the blast furnace to

ANS:A - reduce & melt the iron ore.

Coke is added in the blast furnace primarily to reduce and melt the iron ore. Here's why coke is added in the blast furnace:

1. Reduction of Iron Ore: The primary function of coke in the blast furnace is to act as a source of carbon, which reacts with the iron oxides in the iron ore (mainly hematite, Fe2O3, and magnetite, Fe3O4) to produce elemental iron (Fe). This reduction reaction occurs at high temperatures within the blast furnace:

Fe2​O3​+3C→2Fe+3CO Fe3​O4​+4C→3Fe+4CO

2. Melting of Iron Ore and Fluxes: The high temperatures generated in the blast furnace, typically around 1600°C (2912°F), cause the iron ore and fluxes (such as limestone or dolomite) to melt. Coke plays a crucial role in maintaining these high temperatures, ensuring the efficient melting of the iron ore and the formation of molten pig iron.

While coke does contribute to the overall chemistry and operation of the blast furnace, it is primarily used for the reduction and melting of iron ore. Other functions, such as increasing the fluidity of slag or removing sulfur and phosphorus, are typically achieved through the addition of fluxes (such as limestone) and other refining processes within the blast furnace or downstream in the steelmaking process. Therefore, the statement "reduce and melt the iron ore" is the most accurate description of the role of coke in the blast furnace.