Question
Chemistry Question on Occurrence Of Metals
The role of depressants in 'Froth Floation method' is to
Selectively prevent one component of the ore from coming to the froth
Reduce the consumption of oil for froth formation
Stabilize the froth
Enhance non-wettability of the mineral particles.
Selectively prevent one component of the ore from coming to the froth
Solution
The correct answer is (A): Selectively prevent one component of the ore from coming to the froth.
Explanation:
In the froth flotation method, depressants serve a crucial function by selectively inhibiting the flotation of unwanted minerals. These chemicals are added to the flotation process to prevent certain minerals, typically gangue or undesired components, from attaching to air bubbles and being carried to the froth. Depressants achieve this by adsorbing onto the surface of undesirable minerals, reducing their hydrophobicity, and diminishing their tendency to interact with the flotation reagents and air bubbles.