Extraction of Aluminium

The video explains the extraction of aluminium from its ore. Aluminium is found in bauxite, a metal ore with impurities like iron oxide. The Bayer process is used to remove these impurities, leaving alumina. Electrolysis is then employed to separate aluminium from alumina, requiring high temperatures and electricity. The process involves electrolytic cells where aluminium ions are attracted to a carbon cathode and oxide ions to a carbon anode, forming aluminium and oxygen gas. The final purification yields pure aluminium, a process used to produce millions of tons annually.

What is bauxite and why is it important in the extraction of aluminium?

Describe the Bayer process and its role in obtaining alumina.

Explain the process of electrolysis in the extraction of aluminium.

What happens to the aluminium ions and oxide ions during the electrolysis process?

What are the final products after the electrolysis of aluminium oxide?