Question

A sulfide ore is first converted into its oxide before reduction. This is done because ___________.

• A. A sulphide ore cannot be reduced to metal at all
• B. No reducing agent is found suitable for reducing a sulphide ore
• C. The enthalpy of formation of $C{O}_2$ is more than that of $C{S}_2$
• D. A metal oxide is generally less stable than the metal sulphide

Answer 1

The correct option is D A metal oxide is generally less stable than the metal sulphide

A metal oxide is generally less stable than the metal sulfide. Thus, reduction of metal oxide is easier than the reduction of metal sulfide. Hence, a sulfide ore is first converted into it's oxide before reduction. This process is known as roasting.