# Explain why different methods are used to extract copper and aluminium from their ores, and describe one method that can be used to extract copper from low-grade copper ores.

> Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0) — 4.1 Obtaining and using metals · Explain · 4 marks

> Metals are found in ores in the Earth's crust. The method used to extract a metal depends on its position in the reactivity series. Some newer extraction methods are used when the concentration of metal in an ore is too low for traditional methods to be economical.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Aluminium is more reactive than carbon, so electrolysis must be used to extract it.
2. Copper is less reactive than carbon, so reduction with carbon can be used to extract it.
3. Phytoextraction uses plants to absorb copper compounds through their roots.
4. The plants are then burned and the copper compound can be removed from the ash.

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