Question

There are two steps in the extraction of copper metal from chalcocite, a copper ore. In the first step, copper(I) sulfide and oxygen react to form copper(I) oxide and sulfur dioxide:

2Cu2S+ 3O2 â 2Cu2O + 2SO2

In the second step, copper(I) oxide and carbon react to form copper and carbon monoxide:

Cu2 O(s)+ C(s) â 2Cu(s)+ CO(g)

Write the net chemical equation for the production of copper from copper(I) sulfide, oxygen and carbon.

Answer 1

2Cu2S + 3O2 + 2C -------> 4Cu + 2SO2 + 2CO

Step-by-step explanation:

Equation 1 should correctly be written as;

2Cu2S + 3O2-----> 2Cu2O + 2SO2

Equation 2 should be correctly written as;

2Cu2O + 2C -----> 4Cu + 2CO

The overall reaction equation is;

2Cu2S + 3O2 + 2C -------> 4Cu + 2SO2 + 2CO

Note that species that are intermediates are cancelled out .