Describe the extraction of iron from haematite ore in a blast furnace, including the raw materials, the products, the role of limestone, and the reactions involved.

a) One ore of iron is Haematite ($\text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3$).

b)
A: Waste gases (e.g., $\text{CO}_2$, $\text{N}_2$)
B: Slag (molten calcium silicate)
C: Molten iron (pig iron)

c) The two functions of limestone in the extraction of iron are:

• It decomposes to form calcium oxide, which reacts with acidic impurities (like silicon dioxide) to form slag. This removes impurities from the iron.
• It helps to lower the melting point of the slag, making it easier to remove from the furnace.

d) At point D, the temperature is around $800^\circ\text{C}$ to $1000^\circ\text{C}$. The main reaction is the reduction of iron(III) oxide by carbon monoxide:

$$\text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3\text{(s)} + 3\text{CO(g)} \to 2\text{Fe(l)} + 3\text{CO}_2\text{(g)}$$