How are metals extracted using reduction?

Metals are extracted using reduction by removing oxygen from their ores. This is usually done with carbon (coke) or carbon monoxide.

How it works:

1. Metal ore (usually an oxide) is heated with a reducing agent like carbon.
2. The reducing agent takes away the oxygen from the metal oxide.
3. Pure metal is left behind.

Example: Iron is extracted from hematite by heating it with carbon in a blast furnace.

In short: Reduction = metal oxide → metal + oxygen removed using carbon or carbon monoxide.