Question

According to Ellingham diagram, the oxidation reaction of carbon to carbon monoxide may be used to reduce which one of the following oxides at the lowest temperature $\left({500}^{o}C\right)$?

• A. $A{l}_2{O}_3$
• B. $C{u}_{2}O$
• C. $MgO$
• D. $ZnO$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $C{u}_{2}O$

Any metal will reduce the oxide of other metal which lie above it in Ellingham diagram.
$Cu-C{u}_{2}O$ line is lies at the top of Ellingham diagram so the oxidation reaction of carbon to carbon monoxide is used to reduce the copper at lowest temperature.