JAMB Chemistry 2018 Paper

Concept:The extraction method depends on the metal's reactivity, which is shown by its position in the electrochemical (reactivity) series.Explanation:Reactive metals like $\mathrm{Na}$ and $\mathrm{Al}$ form very stable ores.These stable compounds need strong methods such as electrolysis to be broken down.Less reactive metals like $\mathrm{Fe}$ and $\mathrm{Cu}$ form less stable ores.These ores can be reduced easily by heating with carbon or other reducing agents.Therefore, the method chosen for extraction depends on how easily the metal compound can be decomposed.The ease of decomposition is determined by the metal's position in the electrochemical series.Metals at the top are very reactive and require electrolysis.Metals in the middle can be extracted by reduction with carbon.Metals at the bottom are very unreactive and may only need gentle heating.So, the position in the electrochemical series controls the extraction method, not the position in the periodic table alone.Answer:B. position of the metal in the electrochemical series.