Hydrometallurgy is a method used to extract metals from their ores using aqueous solutions. This process involves dissolving the metal-containing minerals in water, often with the help of chemicals, to separate the desired metal from impurities. It is commonly used for metals like copper, gold, and zinc. The hydrometallurgical process typically includes three main steps: leaching, where the metal is dissolved; separation, where impurities are removed; and recovery, where the metal is precipitated or extracted from the solution. This technique is often preferred for its lower environmental impact compared to traditional methods like pyrometallurgy.