Question

What is the process used to extract sodium from halide ores such as sodium chloride (NaCl)?

(a) Pyro metallurgy

(b) Hydro metallurgy

(c) Electro metallurgy

(d) Magnetic separation

I had been asked this question in a job interview.

My question is based upon Electrochemical Principles of Metallurgy in section General Principles and Processes of Isolation of Elements of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer 1

Right answer is (c) Electro metallurgy

For explanation I would say: Sodium is a highly electro positive metal and can be easily extracted from sodium chloride through a process known as electro metallurgy or electrolysis. Pyro metallurgy and hydro metallurgy are used to extract metals such as copper, iron, silver etc.