Question

What are the important ores of copper? How is copper extracted from copper pyrites?

Answer 1

Main Ores of copper is: (i) Copper pyrites (CuFeS₂), (ii) cuprite (Cu₂S)

Extraction of copper: Copper is extracted to.the copper pyrite is CuFeS₂.

At first free sulphur is oxidies after roasting in laboratory furnance in presence of air

S + O₂ → SO₂

4AS + 3O₂ → 2AS₂O₃

2CuFeS₂ + O₂ → Cu₂S + 2FeS + SO₂

Smelting in blast furnance in presence of air:

2FeS + 3O₂ → 2FeO + 2SO₂

FeO + SiO₂ → FeSiO₃(Slag)

Bessemerisation in bessemer converter in presence of air

2FeS + 3O₂ → 2FeO + 2SO₂

FeO + SiO₂ → FeSiO₃

2Cu₂S + 3O₂ → 2Cu₂O + 2SO₂

2Cu₂O + Cu₂S → 6Cu + SO₂

We get blister copper (98% + impurities)

Electrolytic refining:

Anode → impure copper plates

cathode → Pure copper plates Electrolyte → CuSO + Solution + H₂SO₄

Pure copper deposited at cathode.