why is iron found within an ore, but not gold???
because they are formed differently
Reactivity series: K, Na, Ca, Mg, Al, Zn, Fe, Pb, H, Cu, Hg, Ag, Au. (Highly reactive) --------------------------- (Least Reactive) The metals in the bottom of the reactivity series are the least reactive. They are often found in a free state. For eg: gold, silver and copper are found in free state. The metals at the top of the reactivity series are so reactive that they are never found in nature as free elements. They readily react with elements in the atmosphere and form ores. Iron is found in the top of the reactivity series and is highly reactive. This is why it is found in ores. Gold is one of the least reactive metals and is found at the bottom of reactivity series and is found mostly in the free state.
