Question

How can we convert ore into its oxide form ? Explain with proper examples

Answer 1

For oxidation of ore, there are two methods:

1) Calcination
Calcination is the process of heating the concentrated ore at a temperature below its melting point to remove the volatile impurities. When subjected to calcination, impurities like water, organic matter, and other volatile impurities are expelled from the ore. Metal Carbonate and hydroxides decompose to form oxides.
eg: ZnCO is converted to ZnO by calcination
2) Roasting :
Roasting is the process of heating the concentrated ore at a temperature below its melting point in a current of air. During roasting the ore gets converted into its oxide. When the concentrated ore is subjected to roasting, the water present in it is removed as vapor. Other impurities like sulfur, phosphorous, and organic matter are oxidized and expelled. The sulfide combines with oxygen to form oxide.

eg: $C{u}_{2}S$ ore is converted to $C{u}_{2}O$ by roasting.