Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
smelting
verb
/ˈsmɛltɪŋ/
Definition
The process of extracting metal from its ore by using heat and a chemical reducing agent.
Examples
- The smelting of iron ore produces pig iron.
- In ancient times, smelting techniques were discovered and used to make tools.
- Modern smelting methods can lead to the production of cleaner metals.
Meaning
Smelting is commonly used in metallurgy to obtain pure metals from their ores, combining the ore with a substance like carbon to reduce it to its metallic state.
Synonyms
- refining
- melting
- extraction
