In the froth flotation process for benefication of ore, the ore particles float because

Options

A. They are light
B. Their surface is not easily wetted by water
C. They bear electrostatic charge
D. They are insoluble

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Froth Flotation Process:**
- The froth flotation process is a method used for the separation of hydrophobic materials from hydrophilic ones. It is commonly used in the mining industry for the concentration of ores.

2. **Wetting Properties:**
- The principle behind froth flotation is based on the different wetting properties of ore particles and gangue (impurities). The ore particles have a hydrophobic surface, while gangue particles are hydrophilic.

3. **Behavior of Gangue Particles:**
- Gangue particles are easily wetted by water. This means that when water is added to the mixture, the gangue particles tend to adhere to the water molecules and settle downwards.

4. **Behavior of Ore Particles:**
- In contrast, the surface of the ore particles does not easily wet with water. This hydrophobic nature allows the ore particles to remain on the surface of the mixture when air is introduced.

5. **Conclusion:**
- As a result, during the froth flotation process, the ore particles float on the surface, while the gangue particles sink. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that the ore particles float because they are not wetted easily by water.

**Final Answer:**
The ore particles float because they are not wetted easily by water.

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