# Copper can be found as a native metal in the Earth's crust, whereas aluminium is always found combined with other elements in ores. Explain why copper can exist as a native metal whilst aluminium cannot, and state the method used to extract aluminium from its ore.

> Eduqas GCSE Chemistry — 2.3 Metals and their extraction · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Copper is (relatively) unreactive / low in the reactivity series, so it does not readily combine with other elements
2. Aluminium is (very) reactive / high in the reactivity series, so it readily combines with other elements / is found as a compound
3. Aluminium is extracted by electrolysis (of its molten ore/aluminium oxide)
4. Electrolysis is needed because aluminium is too reactive to be reduced by carbon / carbon cannot displace aluminium

## Key terms

- [native metal](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/native-metal)
- [ore](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ore)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Chemistry](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/copper-can-be-found-as-a-8020aaa1) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.