Chemistry 5070 · O Level · Extraction of metals

Extraction of metals — practice question

Molybdenum is a transition element. It is used to produce steel that is very hard. Molybdenum can be manufactured by heating molybdenum(VI) oxide, $\text{MoO}_3$, together with aluminium.
(a)[1]

Construct the equation for the reaction.

(b)[1]

Explain why this reaction has both oxidation and reduction.

(c)[3]

What mass of molybdenum can be produced from 125 g of molybdenum(VI) oxide? $[A_r: \text{Mo}, 96]$

(d)[1]

Which metal is less reactive, aluminium or molybdenum? Explain your answer.

(e(i))[2]

Molybdenum has a melting point of $2623^\circ\text{C}$. Describe metallic bonding, using a labelled diagram to help.

(e(ii))[2]

Suggest why molybdenum has a much higher melting point than aluminium.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: MoO₃ + 2Al → Al₂O₃ + Mo

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