In the extraction of iron in a blast furnace, limestone is added to: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

In the extraction of iron in a blast furnace, limestone is added to:
A. Lower the melting point of iron
B. Reduce iron oxide
C. Remove silica as slag
D. Increase carbon content
Answer: Option C
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
Limestone (CaCO₃) decomposes to CaO, which is a basic flux. It reacts with the acidic impurity silica (SiO₂) to form calcium silicate (CaSiO₃), a fusible slag: CaO + SiO₂ → CaSiO₃. Slag floats on molten iron and is tapped separately. Reduction is done by CO/coke. Flux makes gangue removal easier. Slag is used in cement, road building.

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