Step 1: Concept
Extraction costs depend on energy consumption, reagent prices, and capital equipment.
Step 2: Meaning
Pyrometallurgy requires massive fuel for high temperatures. Electrometallurgy requires high electricity.
Step 3: Analysis
Hydrometallurgy (like heap leaching) often operates at ambient temperatures and can treat very low-grade ores economically.
Step 4: Conclusion
Hydrometallurgy is generally considered the most cost-effective method for low-grade ore extraction.
Final Answer: (B)