In which cases is hydrometallurgy applicable
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Hydrometallurgy is used in cases where the ore you want to extract can go into a soluble form. For example, bauxite containing aluminum can be washed with alkalis
Al2O3 + 6NaOH + 3H2O = 2Na3Al(OH)6
The solution is then acidified and the alumina
2Na3Al (OH) 6 + 6HCl = 6NaCl + Al2O3 + 6H2O
The alumina is then dissolved in cryolite (Na3AlF6) and electrolysis of the melt is carried out
Al2O3 + 6NaOH + 3H2O = 2Na3Al(OH)6
The solution is then acidified and the alumina
2Na3Al (OH) 6 + 6HCl = 6NaCl + Al2O3 + 6H2O
The alumina is then dissolved in cryolite (Na3AlF6) and electrolysis of the melt is carried out
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