Question

In the exteraction of copper from its sulphide ore, the metal is fanally obtained by the reduction of caprous oxide with
A. copper (I) sulphide `(Cu_(2)S)`
B. sulphur dioxide `(SO_(2))`
C. iron sulphide (FeS)
D. carbon monoxide (CO)

Answer 1

Correct Answer - A
In the extraction of copper from its sulphide ore, when ore is subjected to roasting, some of it is oxidised to `Cu_(2)O` which reacts with the remaining `Cu_(2)S` (sulphide ore) to give copper metal.
`2Cu_(2)S + 3O_(2) rarr 2Cu_(2)O + 2SO_(2)uarr`
`2Cu_(2)O + Cu_(2)S rarr 6Cu + SO_(2) uarr`
In this process `Cu_(2)S` behaves as reducing agent.