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

$\huge \boxed{ \underline{ \underline{ \bf{Answer}}}}$


Metals which are high up in the reactivity series are extracted by electrolytic refining process because these metals are strong reducing agents and therefore, cannot be obtained by using other elements or chemical reduction process, but

Metals which are in the middle of the reactivity series are less reactive, so they can be extracted with the help of chemical reduction process such as calcination or roasting.

The same process can not be used for both of them as highly reactive metals can not be obtained by chemical reduction process


$\underline{ \bf{Example :}}$

Extraction of Sodium :

Sodium is in the high up of the reactivity series, So it is highly reactive element.
Therefore, it is obtain by electrolysis of molten sodium chloride.

$\bf{2NaCl \: \: \: \: \: \longrightarrow \: \: \: \: 2Na(s) + Cl_{2}(g)}$
(Molten)

Answer 2

here is your answer mate.......

Metals like Na and K which are high in the activity series are very relative that they cannot stay alone always found in compounds. hence their extraction is done using electrolytic refining process. but the metals in the middle of activity series are little less reactive than them hence processes like Calculation (for carbonate ores) and Roasting (for sulphur ores) is used. we cannot use these processes for Na Or K because they have more affinity to their salt So boring them in air or in absence if air will not work on them....

Like.....in Roasting..of HgS.

2HgS----Δ---> 2HgO + SO2

then.... 2HgO --Δ--> 2Hg + O2.

and in CaCo3 (calcination)

CaCO3 ---Δ--> CaO + CO2

then 2CaO ---Δ-->2Ca + O2.

in the electrolytic refining of sodium...

Na is got deposited on Cathode...

hope it helps you....