Tungsten (W) is a metal. Tungsten is extracted from tungsten oxide (WO3).  All other solid products from the extraction method must be separated from the tungsten. The table below shows information about three possible methods to extract tungsten from tungsten oxide. Evaluate the three possible methods for extracting tungsten from tungsten oxide. But three possible methods to extract tungsten from tungsten oxide. -6099

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1. Method 1:

   Uses carbon, which is cheap.

   But tungsten needs to be separated from tungsten carbide, which is difficult.

   Some tungsten is lost as tungsten carbide.

   Carbon dioxide gas escapes, so it doesn’t need separating.

   Separating solids is needed, which is expensive and time-consuming.

   Method 2:

   Uses hydrogen, which is the most expensive reactant.

   Water vapour escapes, so no need to separate gases.

   No need to separate solids, which makes it easier and cheaper.

   Method 3:

   Uses iron, which is also a cheap reactant.

   But tungsten has to be separated from iron oxide, which takes time and costs more.

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