Metals at the top of the activity series are highly reactive and are never found in nature as free elements. Moderately reactive metals (Zn, Fe, Pb, etc.) are found mainly as oxides, sulphides, or carbonates in the earth’s crust.

Moderately reactive metals in the middle of the activity series include iron, zinc, lead, and copper. They are typically present as sulphides or carbonates in nature.

Metal sulphides are converted into oxides through roasting, which involves strong heating in the presence of excess air. Carbonate ores are changed into oxides through calcination, achieved by strong heating in limited air.

An alloy is a homogeneous mixture of two or more metals or a metal and a non-metal. It is prepared by melting the primary metal and dissolving other elements in it in definite proportions before cooling to room temperature. Alloys ...

Alloying is a method of improving metal properties by mixing it with other substances. Pure iron is not widely used because it is soft and stretches easily when hot. Mixing it with carbon makes it hard and strong, while adding ...