GCSE Chemistry - Extraction of Metals & Reduction #38

The video tutorial explains how metals are typically found as oxides and introduces the concepts of oxidation and reduction. Oxidation involves gaining oxygen, while reduction is the loss of oxygen. Most metals react with oxygen to form oxides, except for unreactive metals like gold. To obtain pure metals, metal oxides can be reduced using carbon, which is effective for metals less reactive than carbon. This process is demonstrated with examples like copper and iron extraction. More reactive metals require electrolysis, a costly method. The tutorial emphasizes understanding the reactivity series to determine suitable extraction methods.

What is the process of oxidation in terms of oxygen?

Why are most metals found as oxides in nature?

Explain the difference between oxidation and reduction.

Describe the role of carbon in the reduction of metal oxides.

What is the significance of the reactivity series in metal extraction?