Thermite mixture Fe2O3 + Al (powder) is used in the welding. — Metallurgy and Isolation of Elements Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: Identify the main metallurgical processes based on their principles. Electrometallurgy uses electrolysis, and zone refining/electrorefining are refining methods. Step 2: Hydrometallurgy involves using aqueous chemistry for the recovery of metals from ores, concentrates, and recycled materials. This includes leaching (dissolving with a reagent) followed by displacement/precipitation (often called cementation) using a more active (electropositive) metal. Step 3: Therefore, the described process is hydrometallurgy, matching option (a).