Question

A metal M is found in nature as $MC{{O}_{3}}$. It is used in galvanising iron articles. Name the metal. How can the metal be obtained from its carbonate ore? Explain and write both the reactions.

Answer 1

Hint: The answer to this question mainly includes the fact that a metal can be obtained from its carbonate or by calcination process which is heating of ore in the absence or limited supply of air. This leads to the correct answer.

Complete answer:
We have learnt in the basic chemistry topics about the calcinations process or which is also called a roasting process.
- This method is helpful for obtaining carbonates of a particular ore which is required.
- Calcination process usually involves heating in an elevated temperature that is at higher temperatures.
-The process of roasting is mainly based on the type of roaster used.
- Here, zinc metal is widely known for the calcination process.
- Zinc carbonate when heated at higher temperature
_ the equation representing the calcinations of zinc carbonate in the presence of limited supply of air is as shown below,
$ZnC{{O}_{3(s)}}\xrightarrow{heat}Zn{{O}_{(s)}}+C{{O}_{2}}$ $ZnC{{O}_{3(s)}}\xrightarrow{heat}Zn{{O}_{(s)}}+C{{O}_{2(g)}}$
Zinc carbonate on heating produces zinc oxide and carbon dioxide.
Thus the correct answer for $MC{{O}_{3}}$is $ZnC{{O}_{3}}$ .
On the other hand, pure zinc metal is obtained from its carbonate ore after the calcination process from the zinc oxide obtained. Zinc oxide is reduced to metal by heating it with carbon.
This process is basically called reduction. The equation representing this equation is as shown,$Zn{{O}_{(s)}}+{{C}_{(s)}}\xrightarrow{heat}Z{{n}_{(s)}}+C{{O}_{(g)}}$

Note:
Students may understand the question about the galvanisation of iron article is mainly done by the external coating by zinc which will prevent the rusting of iron. This part can make the answer to be found easily.