How is the method of extraction of metals high up in the reactivity series different from that metals in the middle ? Why the same process cannot be applied for them ? Explain giving equations, the extractions of sodium.

Explanation

Metals high up in reactivity series are extracted by electrolytic reduction.
While those in the middle are extracted first by converting into oxide and then reducing by carbon.
Same process cannot be applied as metal at the top are more reactive to oxygen then metal in the middle and metals in the middle are present in sulphide and carbonate ores.
Molten sodium chloride is taken for electrolytic reduction. The metals are deposited at the cathode and chlorine is liberated at anode.
At cathode : `Na^(+) + e^(-) rarr Na`
At anode : `2Cl^(-) rarr Cl_(2) + 2e^(-)`