Question

The final step for the extraction of copper from copper pyrites in Bessemer converter the reaction involves is as:
A) ${{Cu_2}S + 2FeO \to 2Cu + 2Fe + S{O_2}}$
B) ${{Cu_2}S + 2CuO \to 6Cu +S{O_2}}$
C) ${{4Cu_2}S + FeS \to 8Cu + 2Fe{SO_4}}$
D) ${{2Cu_2}O+FeS \to 4Cu + 2Fe + {SO_2}}$

Answer 1

Hint: The principal ore of copper is copper pyrite and copper is extracted from this ore. The different steps in extraction of copper are:
1) Crushing and Concentration
2) Roasting
3) Smelting
4) Bassemerisation
5) Refining
Bessemer converter is the refractory-lined metal container in which steel is produced by the Bessemer process.

Complete answer:
Chalcopyrite is a copper iron sulfide mineral that crystallizes in the tetragonal system. It has the chemical formula\[\;CuFe{S_2}\]. It has a brassy to golden yellow color and a hardness of 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale. Its streak is diagnostic as green tinged black.

Some Important Ores of Copper:
Copper pyrite or chalcopyrite \[\left( {CuFe{S_2}} \right)\].
Chalcocite \[\left( {C{u_2}S} \right)\]or copper glance.
Copper metal is extracted from molten matte through bessemerization. The matte is introduced into the Bessemer converter which is supported by tuyeres. The air is blown through the molten matte. Blast of air converts \[\;C{u_2}S\] partly into \[C{u_2}O\] which reacts with remaining ${Cu_2S}$ to give molten copper.

${2C{u_2}S{\text{ }} + {\text{ }}3{O_2} \to 2C{u_2}O{\text{ }} + {\text{ }}2S{O_2}}$

${2C{u_2}O{\text{ }} + {\text{ }}C{u_2}S \to {\text{ }}6Cu{\text{ }} + {\text{ }}S{O_2}}$

The copper obtained is called "Blister copper" because it solidifies, \[\;S{O_2}\].
The final step for the extraction of copper from copper pyrites in Bessemer converter the reaction involves is as:

\[C{u_2}S{\text{ }} + {\text{ }}2CuO\; \to \;6Cu{\text{ }} + {\text{ }}S{O_2}\]

So the correct option is (B).

Note: This reaction represents auto reduction.\[\;C{u_2}O\] reacts with \[C{u_2}S\] to give copper metal. The solid metal obtained is called blister copper and is about 99% pure.