Question:

What is the principle involved in froth floatation process?

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Remember: "Sulfide ores go with oil, gangue goes with water."
This simple association is the foundation of the entire froth flotation technique.
Updated On: Jul 22, 2026
  • Ore particles are heavier than gangue
  • Gangue particles are adsorbed by pine oil
  • Ore particles are preferentially wetted by oil and gangue by water
  • Ore particles are preferentially wetted by water and gangue by oil
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question is about metallurgy, specifically the froth flotation method used for the concentration of ores.
We need to identify the core physical principle behind this concentration process.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Froth flotation is used to separate mineral particles from gangue based on differences in their wetting characteristics with water and oils.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

• The froth flotation process is primarily used for the concentration of sulfide ores (e.g., Galena PbS, Copper pyrites $\text{CuFeS}_2$, Zinc blende ZnS).

• The pulverized ore is mixed with water and a small amount of collectors (like pine oil or xanthates) and frothers.

• The sulfide ore particles have hydrophobic surfaces and are preferentially wetted by oil (pine oil), making them attach to air bubbles. These rise to the surface as froth.

• The gangue (earthy impurities) particles are hydrophilic and are preferentially wetted by water, causing them to sink to the bottom of the tank.

• This difference in wetting behavior allows the ore to be separated from the impurities.


Step 4: Final Answer:
The principle of the froth flotation process is that ore particles are preferentially wetted by oil and gangue particles are preferentially wetted by water.
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