Question

Form the Ellingham graph between Gibb's energy and temperature, out of $C$ and $CO$ which is a better reducing agent for $ZnO$?

• A. Carbon
• B. $CO$
• C. Both of these
• D. None of these

Answer 1

The correct option is A Carbon

C is a better reducing agent than CO for the reduction of ZnO because the Gibbs energy of formation for $C{O}_2$ from C is smaller than that of ZnO above 1273 K which makes the reduction of ZnO by C feasible. But the Gibbs energy of formation of $C{O}_2$ from CO is greater than that of ZnO and thus, CO cannot reduce ZnO