Question

Siderite is an ore of:
A.Cu
B.Al
C.Ag
D.Fe

Answer 1

To answer this question, you must recall the chemical formula of siderite. Siderite is a carbonate ore. Ores are the minerals that are composed of metal or metal compounds which can be extracted from the rock by removing the impurities.

Complete answer:
Siderite is a common ore and is a wide source of one of the above metals. We know that it is a carbonate ore, that is, the metal is present as metal carbonate in the ore. We must see which of the following metals has carbonate ores.
Considering option A, we have copper. Copper is generally found in ores in the form of sulfides namely chalcopyrite and covelite.
Considering option B, we have aluminium. Aluminium is most commonly extracted from bauxite which is an oxide ore.
Considering option C, we have silver. Silver occurs in the earth’s crust as free silver metal as it is a noble metal.
Considering option D, we have iron. Iron is present in various types of ores most common of which are Hematite, Limonite and siderite. Siderite is derived from the Greek word sideros which means iron. It contains the carbonate of iron. It is also known as gyrate, chalybite and pelosiderite. This ore has a large importance in the production of steel.

Thus, the correct option is D.

Note:
Hematite, siderite and limonite are ores of iron which vary in the percentage of iron present as well as their chemical composition. For example, Siderite is a carbonate ore whereas hematite is an oxide ore.