Describe two advantages of recycling metals rather than extracting them from their ores.

AQA GCSE Chemistry (8462) — 4.10.3 Using materials (Chem only) · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

Recycling metals:
1. Conserves the limited raw materials found in ores, reducing the need for new mining.
2. Requires far less energy than extracting metal from ore, lowering fuel use and CO₂ emissions.
3. Cuts the environmental damage caused by quarrying and mining activities.
4. Reduces the amount of metal waste sent to landfill, decreasing landfill volume and pollution.

Examiner tips

  • Use the word "conserves" or "preserves" for raw materials. Mention "energy" and "CO₂" for the energy point. Show the link between reduced mining and lower environmental impact. Keep each point short and to the point, using exam‑style terminology.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing recycling with re‑smelting, or saying recycling increases energy use. Failing to mention the environmental benefit of reduced mining. Using vague phrases like "less waste" without specifying landfill reduction.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. Recycling conserves finite/limited raw materials (ores)
  2. Recycling requires less energy than extracting metal from ore
  3. Recycling reduces the environmental impacts of quarrying/mining
  4. Recycling reduces waste / reduces the amount of metal sent to landfill

Key terms in this question

recycling · ore

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