Hall-Héroult process

The Hall-Héroult process is the main method for producing aluminum metal. It involves dissolving aluminum oxide (bauxite) in molten cryolite, creating a liquid mixture. Electric current is then passed through the mixture, causing a chemical reaction that separates aluminum metal from oxygen. The aluminum metal collects at the bottom of the container and can be extracted. This process is energy-intensive but essential because aluminum is difficult to purify using other methods. It revolutionized aluminum production, making the metal affordable and widely available for various uses.