How metals less reactive than carbon can be removed from their ore?

Metals less reactive than carbon can be extracted from their ores through a process called reduction, typically using carbon itself. In this method, the ore is heated with carbon, often in the form of coke, which reacts with the oxygen in the metal oxide to produce carbon dioxide and the pure metal. This process is effective because the carbon can displace the less reactive metal from its compound, allowing for its recovery. Common examples include the extraction of lead and copper from their respective ores.