Zinc refining is the process of purifying zinc metal from its ores, primarily sphalerite. The refining process typically involves crushing the ore, followed by concentration through flotation, where valuable minerals are separated from waste material. The concentrated ore is then subjected to smelting, where it is heated with carbon to produce zinc vapor. After smelting, the zinc vapor is collected and cooled, resulting in crude zinc. This crude zinc undergoes further purification through electrolysis, where impurities are removed, yielding high-purity zinc metal. The refined zinc is then used in various applications, including galvanizing steel and producing alloys.