Question

Give the steps involved in the extraction of metals of low and medium reactivity from their respective sulphide ores.

Answer 1

• During the extraction of metals of low and medium reactivity from their respective sulphide ores. 
• They are first heated in presence of atmospheric oxygen. 
• This step will give out oxides of metal. 
• This step is used as it is more efficient method to extract methods. 

Ex: Cinnabar is heated in air to get mercuric sulphide oxidize to produce mercuric oxide. 

2HgS + 3O₂ → 2HgO + 2SO₂ 

Mercuric oxide is further heat to get Mercury 

2HgO → 2Hg + O₂ 

Zinc is a metal of medium reactivity and its ore is Zinc Blende Zinc Blend is roasted to get Zinc oxide

2ZnS + 3O₂ → 2ZnO + 2SO₂ 

ZNCO₃ → ZnO+ CO₂

Zinc oxide when heated wit CO₂ Zinc is obtained 

ZnO + C → Zn+CO