Class 12 Chemistry - Chapter General Principles and Processes of Isolation of Elements NCERT Solutions | Why is the extraction of copper from pyr

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Question 3

Why is the extraction of copper from pyrites more difficult than that from its oxide ore through reduction?

Answer

The Gibbs free energy of formation (ΔfG) of Cu2S is less than that of H2S and CS2. Therefore, H2 and C cannot reduce Cu2S to Cu.

On the other hand, the Gibbs free energy of formation of Cu2O is greater than that of CO. Hence, C can reduce Cu2O to Cu.

C(s) +Cu2O(s)   →   2Cu(s) + CO(g)

Hence, the extraction of copper from its pyrite ore is difficult than from its oxide ore through reduction.

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