Which method is commonly used to extract copper from copper sulphide (Cu2S)?
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A.
Roasting in air
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B.
Dissolving in acid
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C.
Reduction with carbon
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D.
Electrolysis
Correct Answer:
A. Roasting in air
Explanation:
Copper is primarily extracted from its sulphide ore, chalcocite (Cu2S), through a process known as pyrometallurgy. The initial stage involves roasting the concentrated ore in the presence of excess air or oxygen. During this chemical reaction, the copper(I) sulphide reacts with oxygen to form copper(I) oxide (Cu2O) and sulphur dioxide gas (SO2). Subsequently, the copper oxide reacts with the remaining copper sulphide in a self-reduction process to yield impure "blister" copper. This thermal treatment in air is the standard industrial method for recovering copper from sulphide minerals.
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