Q1: In the commercial production of which of the following metals, matallothermic reduction is used ?

ANS:B - Zinc

Zinc is a chemical element with the symbol "Zn" and atomic number 30. Here's an explanation of zinc:

1. Properties:
   • Physical Properties: Zinc is a bluish-white metal with a shiny surface. It is relatively soft and malleable at room temperature but becomes brittle when exposed to low temperatures. Zinc has a melting point of approximately 419.5°C (787.1°F) and a boiling point of around 907°C (1665°F).
   • Chemical Properties: Zinc is a moderately reactive metal, readily reacting with acids to form zinc salts and hydrogen gas. However, it does not react with oxygen at room temperature, forming a protective layer of zinc oxide (ZnO) on its surface that prevents further oxidation.
2. Occurrence and Extraction:
   • Natural Occurrence: Zinc is commonly found in the Earth's crust as the mineral sphalerite (zinc sulfide) and is also present in various ores such as smithsonite, hemimorphite, and zincite.
   • Extraction: Zinc is primarily extracted from its ores through a process called roasting, which involves heating the zinc sulfide ore in the presence of oxygen to produce zinc oxide. The zinc oxide is then reduced to metallic zinc using carbon or carbon monoxide in a process known as the "Zinc Smelting Process."
3. Uses:
   • Galvanization: One of the most important applications of zinc is in galvanization, where zinc is applied as a protective coating to steel or iron surfaces to prevent corrosion. This process involves electroplating or hot-dipping the metal in molten zinc.
   • Alloys: Zinc is commonly used as an alloying element in the production of various alloys, including brass (copper-zinc alloy), bronze (copper-tin-zinc alloy), nickel silver (copper-zinc-nickel alloy), and zinc-aluminum alloys.
   • Chemical Industry: Zinc compounds are used in various chemical processes, such as in the production of rubber, paints, ceramics, and pharmaceuticals.
   • Batteries: Zinc-carbon and zinc-air batteries utilize zinc as an anode material in electrochemical cells.
   • Dietary Supplement: Zinc is an essential trace element required for the proper functioning of enzymes and biological processes in the human body. It is commonly used as a dietary supplement to support immune function, wound healing, and overall health.
4. Health and Safety:
   • Toxicity: While zinc is an essential nutrient for humans and animals, excessive intake of zinc can lead to toxicity, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
   • Environmental Impact: Zinc and its compounds can have environmental implications, particularly in industrial discharge and waste disposal, where they may accumulate in soil and water and affect ecosystems.

In summary, zinc is a versatile metal with a wide range of industrial, commercial, and biological applications. Its corrosion-resistant properties, alloying capabilities, and role in essential biological processes make it a valuable and indispensable element in various industries and everyday products.