# Explain why some metals are found as native metals in the Earth's crust whilst others must be extracted from their ores.

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

> Metals vary in their reactivity. Gold and platinum are found as uncombined elements in nature, whilst metals such as zinc and iron are always found as compounds.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Unreactive / less reactive metals are found as native / uncombined metals
2. More reactive metals are found as compounds / ores because they react readily with other elements (e.g. oxygen, sulfur)
3. Metals above carbon / hydrogen in the reactivity series require reduction by a more reactive substance (e.g. carbon / electrolysis) to extract them
4. The position of a metal in the reactivity series determines the method of extraction used

## Key terms

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

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-some-metals-are-found-87b2fe98) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.