Maharashtra BoardEnglish MediumSTD 10ScienceMetals and Non-Metals3 Marks
Question
How is copper extracted from its sulphide ore (copper glance), $Cu_2S$? Explain with equations of the reactions involved.
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Answer
The concentrated copper (I) sulphide ore (copper glance), Cu 2 S is roasted in air when a part of copper (I) sulphide is oxidised to copper (I) oxide.
$2\text{Cu}_2\text{O(s)}+3\text{O}_2\text{(g)}\xrightarrow{\text{Rosting}}2\text{Cu}_2\text{O(s)}+2\text{SO}_2\text{(g)}$
When a good amount of copper (I) sulphide has been converted to copper (I) oxide, then the supply of air for roasting is stopped. In the absence of air, copper (I) oxide formed above reacts with remaining copper (I) sulphide to form copper metal and sulphur dioxide.
$2\text{Cu}_2\text{O(s)}+\text{Cu}_2\text{O(s)}\xrightarrow{\text{Heat}}6\text{Cu}\text{(s)}+\text{SO}_2\text{(g)}$
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