Problem 41 - 43 Years JEE ADVANCED (1978-2020) + JEE MAIN Chapterwise & Topicwise Solved Papers Chemistry

Question

Casseterite is ore of

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Cassiterite is an ore of Tin.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question asks which element or metal cassiterite is an ore of. Cassiterite is known in mineralogy as a specific type of ore.

Step 2: Associating Cassiterite with Tin

Cassiterite is scientifically recognized as the chief ore of tin (Sn). It prominently contains tin dioxide (\( \text{SnO}_2 \)). Tin is extracted from cassiterite through various extraction processes due to the presence of tin in this mineral.

Key Concepts

Tin extraction

Tin extraction is the process of obtaining tin from its naturally occurring ore, cassiterite. The primary composition of cassiterite includes a high concentration of tin dioxide (\( \text{SnO}_2 \)). Extracting tin involves distinct steps to separate pure tin from other substances found in the ore.

• Mining and Concentration: Cassiterite ore is first mined from the earth. It often contains impurities. The first step is the concentration of the ore, which is done through processes such as gravimetric separation, an effective method because cassiterite is denser than many impurities.
• Roasting: The concentrated ore undergoes roasting. During roasting, the tin dioxide is heated with carbon sources like charcoal to produce tin and carbon dioxide. This is where most of the chemical transformation happens.
• Refining: The crude tin obtained from roasting still contains impurities. Further refining removes these impurities, often using electrolysis or smelting. The end result is high-purity tin ready for industrial or commercial use.

Each step in the extraction process plays a crucial role in effectively separating tin from other non-essential substances.

Tin dioxide

Tin dioxide, commonly represented as \( \text{SnO}_2 \), is a notable compound due to its role in the tin extraction process. As the main component of cassiterite, tin dioxide is invaluable for its utility in obtaining pure tin.

• Natural Occurrence: Tin dioxide occurs naturally as cassiterite, making it the primary source for tin extraction.
• Chemical Properties: It is an oxide that demonstrates stability and high melting points, contributing to its resilience during the extraction processes.
• Industrial Usage: Beyond tin extraction, \( \text{SnO}_2 \) finds applications in ceramics and gas sensors, thanks to its physical and chemical properties.

Its presence in cassiterite is essential for both the mining industry and diverse technological applications.

Ore minerals

Ore minerals like cassiterite are naturally occurring materials from which valuable metals can be profitably extracted. These minerals are integral to modern mining and metal extraction processes, contributing significantly to industrial development.

• Definition and Characteristics: Ore minerals contain economically valuable elements. They are concentrated enough to allow for the profitable extraction of a particular metal.
• Importance in Mining: Identifying and processing ore minerals is crucial for the efficient extraction of metals like tin, copper, and gold. The mineral's chemical composition dictates the method of extraction.
• Cassiterite as an Ore Mineral: Cassiterite is one of the most economically significant ore minerals for tin due to its high concentration of tin dioxide. Understanding its properties allows for improved mining and extraction techniques.

Ore minerals play a foundational role in the economy by underpinning resource extraction industries and technology.