Question

Name a metal of medium reactivity and write three main steps in the extraction of this metal from its sulphide ore

Answer 1

Copper (Cu) is an element of medium reactivity.

1. 2CuS + O2 + heat = 2CuO + SO2

THIS PROCESS OF CONVERTING THE SULPHIDE ORE TO IT'S OXIDE FORM IS KNOWN AS ROASTING.
IT IS DONE IN PRESENCE OF EXCESS AMOUNT OF OXYGEN GAS.
THEN, THE PROCESS OF REDUCTION IS DONE.

2. CuO + heat = Cu + O2

HENCE, WE WILL GET THE PURE METAL.

Answer 2

Zinc

The steps involved in extraction of zinc from zinc sulphide are:

1) Roasting of sulphide ore in the pressence of air to convert it into metal oxide.

2 ZnS(s) + 3O2 (g) ----------> 2 ZnO(g) + 2 SO2(g)

2) Reduction of metal oxide with carbon to get the free metal.

ZnO(s) + C(s) ----------> Zn(s) + Co(g)

3) Refining of impure metal to get pure metal.