Describe magnetic separation method with the help of labelled diagram. Also explain how cassiterite ore is concentrated by this method.

Explanation

i.The magnetic separation process is based on the differences in magnetic properties of the ore components.
ii. This method requires an electromagnetic machine which consists of a nonmagnetic conveyor belt moving over two rollers, one of which is magnetic in nature while other is nonmagnetic
iii.Powdered ore is dropped over the moving belt near nonmagnetic roller. Two collector vessels are placed below magnetic roller.
iv. The nonmagnetic particles are carried further along with belt and fall in the collector vessel placed away from magnetic roller. At the same time, the magnetic portion of the ore is attracted by the magnetic roller and falls in the collector vessel near the magnetic roller.

E.g. Cassiterite is a tin ore which contains mainly the nonmagnetic ingredient, stannic oxide (`SnO_2`) and the magnetic ingredient, ferrous tungstate (`FeWO_4`). These components of cassiterite are separated by magnetic separation method.