Define the term 'gangue'. Why is it necessary to remove gangue before extracting a metal from its ore?

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Accepted Answer

## Model Answer **Gangue:** The earthly impurities such as soil and sand associated with an ore mined from the earth are called gangue. **Why it must be removed:** If gangue is not removed before extraction, it will interfere with the extraction process, waste energy, and reduce the efficiency and purity of the metal obtained. Removal is done based on differences in physical or chemical properties between gangue and the ore. *Source: Metals and Non-metals, Section 3.4.2 Enrichment of Ores* --- ## Explanation - The definition is directly from Section 3.4.2 — use the exact textbook phrasing for 1 mark. - For the second part (1 mark), examiners expect you to state that impurities interfere with extraction and must be removed prior to it. Mentioning that separation uses differences in physical/chemical properties adds value. - Do not over-explain; two crisp points are sufficient for 2 marks.

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