froth flotation
nounUK /ˌfrɒθ fləʊˈteɪʃən/
US /ˌfrɔːθ floʊˈteɪʃən/
A way to separate tiny bits of useful stuff from rock by making them float on bubbles.
The mine uses froth flotation to pull copper out of crushed ore.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A method in recycling that uses bubbles to sort plastics or paper.
Froth flotation helps recycle mixed plastics by floating one type away from another.
3. The process of making fine particles rise to the surface in a frothy layer.
In the lab, froth flotation lifted the fine powder to the top of the tank.
4. A technique used to clean coal by removing ash-forming minerals.
Coal washing often relies on froth flotation to reduce ash content.