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Metals have many uses - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 3 - 2012 - Paper 1
Question 3
Metals have many uses. (a) Complete the sentence by putting a cross (X) in the box next to your answer. Aluminium and magnesium are melted together to form magnali... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Metals have many uses - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 3 - 2012 - Paper 1
Step 1
Step 2
Describe how iron is extracted from its ore.
Answer
Iron is typically extracted from its ore, mainly iron oxide (Fe₂O₃), through a process called smelting. This involves heating the ore in a blast furnace, where it is combined with carbon (in the form of coke). The carbon reacts with oxygen in the iron oxide, reducing it to molten iron:
ightarrow 2 ext{Fe} + 3 ext{CO}$$ The molten iron sinks to the bottom of the furnace, while impurities, known as slag, float on top and can be removed.Step 3
Explain how this reaction involves both oxidation and reduction.
Answer
In the reaction, CuO + H₂ → Cu + H₂O, copper(II) oxide (CuO) is reduced to copper (Cu) while hydrogen (H₂) is oxidized to water (H₂O). Reduction is the gain of electrons or loss of oxygen, and in this case, CuO loses oxygen to become Cu. Simultaneously, oxidation is the loss of electrons or gain of oxygen, where H₂ loses electrons to form H₂O. Thus, this reaction can be identified as a redox reaction, involving both oxidation and reduction simultaneously.
Step 4
Explain why shape memory alloys are better than other alloys for making spectacle frames.
Answer
Shape memory alloys are preferred for spectacle frames because when they are bent or deformed, they can return to their original shape. This characteristic offers durability and flexibility, ensuring that the frames can withstand everyday wear and maintain their intended shape. In contrast, other alloys may not have this property and tend to stay deformed after bending, leading to potential damage and reduced lifespan of the frames.
Step 5