Question detail
Describe aluminium oxide as the aluminium compound used in extraction.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Electrolysis
Question
Describe aluminium oxide as the aluminium compound used in extraction.
Answer
Aluminium oxide, also known as alumina, is a white crystalline compound that consists of aluminium and oxygen. It is the primary source of aluminium and is extracted from bauxite ore, which contains a high percentage of aluminium oxide.
Explanation
This question assesses the student's ability to identify and describe the chemical compound involved in aluminium extraction. A strong answer includes the chemical composition and the source of aluminium oxide, demonstrating comprehension of the extraction process.
Common mistake
Aluminium extraction via carbon reduction
Students think aluminium can be extracted by reducing Al₂O₃ with carbon because aluminium is a metal.
Aluminium oxide is too stable for reduction with carbon; the high temperature required would also melt the carbon anode, so electrolysis is used instead.
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