Explain the purification of sulphide ore by Froth Floatation Method.

Explanation

In this process ore is powdered and made into a slurry with water. A rotating paddle is used to agitate the suspension in presence * of an oil: Froth is formed which carriés mineral particles. To this slurry froth collectors and stabilisers are added. Collectors (pine oil, xanthate) enhance non - wettability of the mineral particles. Froth stabilisers (e.g. cresols, aniline) stabilise the froth. The mineral particles become wet by oils while gangue particles become wet by water. The froth is light and is skimmed off. The ore particles are then obtained from the froth.