Question

Copper is extracted from copper pyrites by

• A. Thermal decomposition
• B. Reduction by coke
• C. Electrometallurgy
• D. Auto reduction

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The formula of copper pyrites is \(CuFeS _{2} .\) In auto reduction, the sulphide ores of the metals which are less electropositive like \(Hg , Pb\) and \(Cu\) are heated in the air so as to convert a part of it to its oxides. These oxides then react with the remaining sulphide ore in the absence of air, to give the metal and sulphur dioxide. The corresponding reaction is: 

\(Cu _{2} O +\frac 12Cu _{2} S \rightarrow 3 Cu + \frac 12 SO _{2}\)

Answer 2

Copper is extracted from copper pyrites (\( \text{CuFeS}_2 \)) using a process known as electrometallurgy. In this process, copper pyrites is first heated in the presence of oxygen to produce copper(I) oxide and sulfur dioxide. The copper(I) oxide is then reduced to copper metal using electrical energy. This method is highly effective for obtaining copper from copper pyrites, and it falls under the category of electrometallurgy, which involves using electricity for the extraction of metals.

Thus, the correct process for extracting copper from copper pyrites is electrometallurgy, corresponding to option (D).