question_subject:
question_exam:
stats:
keywords:
The correct statement is:
I and III are correct.
Statement I is correct. Coke, which is a form of carbon derived from coal, acts as a reducing agent in the blast furnace. It reacts with the oxygen in the iron ore to remove the oxygen and facilitate the reduction of iron.
Statement III is correct. Coke also serves as a fuel in the blast furnace. It provides the heat necessary for the smelting process and maintains the high temperature required for the chemical reactions to occur.
Statement II is incorrect. The function of coke in the blast furnace is not specifically to remove silica associated with the iron ore. Silica is typically removed as slag, which is formed by the reaction of the impurities with the fluxing agents added to the furnace.
Statement IV is incorrect. Coke does not act as an oxidizing agent in the blast furnace. It primarily functions as a reducing agent and a source of heat.
Therefore, the correct answer is: I and III are correct.