Describe the principle of concentration of ore by the froth flotation
Concentration of Ore by Froth Flotation:
- Froth
flotation is a process used to concentrate the valuable minerals in an
ore.
- It is based on the principle that the minerals with a lower density
will float on top of a liquid and the minerals with a higher density
will sink.
- In froth flotation, the ore is mixed with water and a
chemical called a collector, which binds to the desired mineral.
- Air is
then bubbled through the mixture, and the froth that forms on the
surface is skimmed off and dried.
- The dried froth contains the
concentrated minerals.
- This method is commonly used for the
concentration of sulfide minerals, such as copper, lead, and zinc.
