Question

${Cu_2S + 2Cu_2O -> 6Cu + SO_2}$ In which process of metallurgy of copper, above equation is involved?

• A. Roasting
• B. Self reduction
• C. Refining
• D. Purification

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Self reduction

Answer 2

During the Bessemerisation process, the sulphide ores of less electropositive metals are heated in air to convert part of the ore into oxide or sulphate which then react with the remaining sulphide ore to give the metal and sulphur dioxide. Copper sulphide is partially oxidised to cuprous oxide which futher can react with remaining copper sulphide to form copper and sulphur dioxide. $2 Cu _{2} S +3 O _{2} \rightarrow 2 Cu _{2} O +2 SO _{2}$ $Cu _{2} S +2 Cu _{2} O \rightarrow 6 Cu + SO _{2}$ This process is also called autoreduction process or air reduction process.