The process of extracting a metal from its ore is called metallurgy. The most common method used to extract metals from ores is called smelting. Smelting involves heating the ore in a high-temperature furnace to burn off the impurities and separate the pure metal. The pure metal is then typically cast into ingots or other forms for further processing. Other methods for extracting metals from their ores include leaching, electrolysis, and precipitation.