Principle of jigging:\nOre concentration by jigging primarily exploits differences in which particle property?

Introduction / Context:
Jigging is a gravity separation technique in which a pulsating fluid (often water) stratifies particles based on density. Heavier particles migrate downward and concentrate, while lighter gangue rises. Understanding the property that drives separation allows engineers to evaluate whether jigging is appropriate for a given ore.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Mixed feed of valuable mineral and gangue with different densities.
• Pulsating fluid flow provided by the jig action.

Concept / Approach:
Under alternating acceleration and deceleration, particles experience differential settling velocities (per Stokes/allen regimes), which depend strongly on density and size. With suitable sizing (narrow size range), density differences dominate, enabling effective separation. Wettability differences are exploited in flotation, not jigging; magnetic/electrostatic properties are for specialized separators; shape effects are secondary and controlled by screening before jigging.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Flowsheets for iron ore and coal beneficiation use jigs where density contrasts are sufficiently large, confirming the principle.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Wettability: flotation domain.
• Shape: managed via screening; not the primary mechanism.
• Magnetic/electrostatic: used in respective specialty separators.

Common Pitfalls:
Feeding wide size distributions reduces jig efficiency; size classification upstream is important.

Final Answer:
Specific gravity (density)