Ncert Exercises & Solutions

Which of the following ores can be reduced by carbon?

a. Haematite

b. Zincite

c. Iron pyrites

d. Sphalerite

Choose the correct option:
1. a and b
2. b and c
3. c and d
4. a and d

HINT: Oxide ore can be reduced by carbon.

Explanation:

STEP 1: In the metallurgical process, the oxide ores are reduced by carbon. Sulphide ore cannot be reduced by carbon.

Here, haematite

({Fe}_{2} O_{3})

and zincite

(ZnO)

are oxide ores of iron and zinc respectively while iron pyrites

({FeS}_{2})

and sphalerite

(ZnS)

are sulphide ores of iron and zinc respectively.

STEP 2: The reactions involved are:

2 {Fe}_{2} O_{3} (s)

+

3 C (s)

\to

4 Fe (s)

+

3 {CO}_{2} (g)

ZnO (s)

+

C (s) \to

Zn (g)

+

CO (g)

Therefore, haematite and zincite can be reduced by carbon.