Chapter 7: Problem 4

Discuss the method for the extraction of a metal from its oxide and sulphide ores with the help of suitable examples.

Short Answer

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The process of extraction of a metal from its oxide or sulphide ores involves first purifying the ore. If the ore is a sulphide, then it is roasted to convert it to an oxide. The oxide is then reduced, typically by heating it with a more reactive metal or with a reducing agent like carbon. The exact process might vary depending on the specific metal being extracted.

Step by step solution

Depicting the general process of extraction

An ore, whether it is an oxide or a sulfide, must first undergo a process of purification to remove impurities. This often includes grinding the ore into a fine powder and then washing it to remove unwanted substances, known as gangue.

Roasting the ore

If the ore is a sulfide, it is roasted in the presence of air to convert it into an oxide. For instance, lead(II) sulfide is transformed into lead(II) oxide through roasting.

Reduction of the oxide

The oxide ore is then reduced, which involves removing oxygen atoms. This is commonly done by heating the oxide with a more reactive metal or by using a reducing agent such as carbon. If using carbon, for example, lead(II) oxide would be heated with carbon to yield lead metal and carbon dioxide.

Discussing examples of specific metals

Different metals require different methods. For instance, copper can be extracted from its sulfide ore (CuFeS2) through smelting, while iron is typically extracted from its oxide ore (Fe2O3) using blast furnaces with carbon as a reducing agent.

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Discuss the method for the extraction of a metal from its oxide and sulphide ores with the help of suitable examples.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Depicting the general process of extraction

Roasting the ore

Reduction of the oxide

Discussing examples of specific metals

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