Question

Write self reduction process with balanced chemical equation in the extraction of copper from copper matte.Why is the process called self reduction?

Answer 1

Hi there,

Self-reduction is a reaction in which no external reducing agent is required.

The copper is formed of by the reduction of Cu2O and Cu2S in the process of extraction of copper from its sulfide ore. This reaction gives 98% copper by auto reduction. Electrolytic refining can be used for obtaining 99.9% pure copper. The reaction of self-reduction is given below:

2Cu2O + Cu2S -----> 6Cu + SO2

It is called self-reducing because copper oxide itself reduced the copper sulfide to give copper and sulfur dioxide.

Hope it helps you.