Question

How is the method of extraction

of metals high up in the reactivity

series different from that for

metals in the middle? Why the

same process cannot be applied for

them? Explain giving equations, the

extraction of sodium. ​

Answer 1

Metals high up in reactivitv series are extracted by electrolytic reduction.  While those in the middle are extracted first by converting into oxide and then reducing by carbon.  Same method cannot be used because metals have more affinity for oxygen than carbon.   Molten sodium chloride is taken for electrolytic reduction. The metals are deposited at the cathode and chlorine is liberated at anode.  At cathode : Na+ + e-→ Na   At anode : 2Cl-→ Cl2 + 2e-Read more on Sarthaks.com - https://www.sarthaks.com/89355/method-extraction-metals-high-reactivity-series-different-from-that-for-metals-the-middle