Question

Which of the following elements is refined by zone refining?

• A. Gallium
• B. Bismuth
• C. Copper
• D. Zinc

Hint:

Zone refining is commonly used for semiconductor materials like silicon, germanium, and gallium.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding zone refining.
Zone refining is a purification technique used to obtain very high purity metals. It is mainly applied to metals used in semiconductors, where even small impurities can affect performance.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) Gallium: Gallium is a semiconductor element and is purified using zone refining to achieve extremely high purity.
(B) Bismuth: Bismuth is generally refined using electrolytic or other chemical methods.
(C) Copper: Copper is refined mainly by electrolytic refining, not zone refining.
(D) Zinc: Zinc is refined using distillation or electrolytic methods.

Step 3: Conclusion.
Gallium is refined by zone refining because it is used in semiconductor applications requiring high purity.