Which are the byproducts of the extraction of iron?

Options

A. Pig iron
B. Slag
C. Wrought iron
D. Blast furnace gas

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Extraction Process**: The extraction of iron primarily occurs in a blast furnace. In this process, iron ore (mainly hematite, Fe2O3) is reduced to iron using carbon (coke) as a reducing agent.

2. **Main Products of Extraction**: The main product obtained from the extraction of iron is pig iron, which contains impurities. Another product is wrought iron, which is a purer form of iron.

3. **Identifying Byproducts**: During the extraction process, several byproducts are generated. The two main byproducts are:
- **Slag**: This is formed from the impurities in the iron ore and the flux (usually limestone, CaCO3) used in the process. The chemical composition of slag is primarily calcium silicate (CaSiO3) and can also include iron silicate (FeSiO3).
- **Blast Furnace Gas**: This gas is produced during the reduction reactions in the blast furnace. It mainly consists of carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen (N2).

4. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the byproducts of the extraction of iron are slag (FeSiO3) and blast furnace gas.

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