Step 1: Concept Refining in the Linz-Donawitz (LD) converter involves the selective oxidation of impurities from hot metal using a high-purity oxygen jet.
Step 2: Meaning The order of removal depends on the thermodynamic stability (affinity for oxygen) of the impurity oxides.
Step 3: Analysis Silicon has the highest affinity for oxygen among the common impurities. It oxidizes rapidly to form $SiO_{2}$, which then reacts with added lime to form slag.
Step 4: Conclusion Therefore, Silicon is the first impurity to be eliminated during the oxygen blow in LD steelmaking.
Final Answer: (C)