# Describe how iron is extracted from its ore in a blast furnace. Include the role of coke and limestone in the process.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620) — 9.6 Extraction of metals · Describe · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Coke burns in the blast of hot air to produce carbon dioxide / coke reacts with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide
2. Carbon dioxide reacts with more coke/carbon to form carbon monoxide
3. Carbon monoxide reduces iron oxide / iron ore to iron
4. Limestone decomposes to form calcium oxide, which reacts with acidic impurities / silicon dioxide to form slag (calcium silicate)

## Key terms

- [blast furnace](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/blast-furnace)
- [coke](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/coke)
- [limestone](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/limestone)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/describe-how-iron-is-extracted-from-877c12f9) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.