Question

Although there are several ores, 80% of the world copper production comes from the ore chalcopyrite ($CuFe{S}_2$). The extraction of copper from chalcopyrite involves partial roasting, removal of iron and self-reduction. Iron is removed from chalcopyrite as:

• A. $FeO$
• B. $FeS$
• C. $F{e}_2{O}_3$
• D. $FeSi{O}_3$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $FeSi{O}_3$

The roasted ore is mixed with Silica and powdered coke (to deter the oxidation of FeO to $F{e}_2{O}_3$ so that FeO could be removed as $FeSi{O}_3$)

$FeO+Si{O}_2\to FeSi{O}_3$

The temperature is high enough to melt the slag. Below the layer of slag is molten mass known as Copper Matte. It consists of $C{u}_{2}S$ and $FeS$.