Explain the role of each of the following:
(i) NaCN in the extraction of silver
(ii) SiO2 in the extraction of copper
(i) The roasted ore of gold is leached with a solution of sodium cyanide in the presence of oxygen for many days. The role of NaCN in this process is to dissolve the gold to form an aurocyanide complex, from which the metal is obtained by displacement.
4Au + 8NaCN + 2H2O + O2 ---> 4 Na [Au(CN)2] + 4KOH
2Na[Au(CN)2] + Zn ---> Na2[Zn(CN)4] + 2Au
(ii) Copper matte contains Cu2S and FeS. In the blast furnace, copper matte is added with powdered coke and silica. The oxidation of ore takes place in this process. As a result, cuprous oxide and ferrous oxide are produced. The role of silica in this process is to remove the iron oxide obtained as ‘slag’. FeO combines with silica (flux) to form iron silicate, FeSiO3(slag).
FeO + SiO2 FeSiO2
Flux slag
(i) Name the method of refining of metals such as Germanium.
(ii)In the extraction of Al, impure Al2O3 is dissolved in conc. NaOH to form sodium aluminate and leaving impurities behind. What is the name of this process?
(iii)What is the role of coke in the extraction of iron from its oxides?
Describe the principle controlling each of the following processes:
(i) Preparation of cast iron form pig iron.
(ii) Preparation of pure alumina (Al2O3) from bauxite ore.Explain the principle of the method of electrolytic refining of metals. Give one example.
Out of PbS and PbCO3 (ores of lead), which one is concentrated by froth flotation process preferably?
Write the chemical reactions involved in the process of extraction of Gold. Explain the role of dilute NaCN and Zn in this process