Smelting

Smelting is a process used to extract metal from its ore, which is a naturally occurring mineral containing metal compounds. During smelting, the ore is heated at high temperatures in a furnace, often in the presence of a reducing agent like carbon. This process separates the metal from impurities, allowing the refined metal to be collected. Smelting is crucial in producing metals such as iron, copper, and aluminum, which are essential for various industries and everyday products. The process not only facilitates metal extraction but also contributes to recycling and sustainable resource management.