Problem 28 - 43 Years JEE ADVANCED (1978-2020) + JEE MAIN Chapterwise & Topicwise Solved Papers Chemistry

Question

Which ore contains both iron and copper? (a) Cuprite (b) Chalcocite (c) Chalcopyrite (d) Malachite

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Chalcopyrite contains both iron and copper.

Step 1: Analyze the composition of each ore

To determine which ore contains both iron and copper, let's examine the composition of each option: - Cuprite (Cu₂O): Contains only copper and oxygen; no iron. - Chalcocite (Cu₂S): Contains copper and sulfur; no iron. - Chalcopyrite (CuFeS₂): Contains copper, iron, and sulfur. - Malachite (Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂): Contains copper, carbon, and oxygen; no iron.

Step 2: Identify the correct ore

Based on the compositions identified in Step 1, Chalcopyrite (CuFeS₂) is the only ore listed that contains both copper (Cu) and iron (Fe).

Key Concepts

Ore Composition

The composition of an ore refers to the specific combination of minerals or compounds it contains. Understanding the composition of an ore is essential when determining its utility and how to extract valuable metals from it. It involves knowing what elements and compounds are present and in what proportions.

• For instance, ores can contain a combination of metals, such as copper and iron, or a mixture of metals and non-metals like sulfur or oxygen.
• The identification of these components is typically done through chemical analysis.

Such analyses help us not only find economically feasible extraction methods but also predict the type of by-products produced during metallurgy. Recognizing the makeup of different ores directly influences their processing methods, costs, and environmental impacts. For students, an understanding of ore composition is crucial, as it connects directly to broader metallurgical chemistry concepts and real-world applications.

Chalcopyrite

Chalcopyrite is a widely occurring mineral in the group of sulfide minerals. Its chemical formula, CuFeS₂, reveals the elements it consists of: copper, iron, and sulfur. This composition makes it one of the most important sources of copper extraction worldwide.

• In its pure state, chalcopyrite has a striking golden yellow color, similar to that of gold, which has earned it the nickname "Fool's Gold."
• However, unlike gold, chalcopyrite's structure contains both copper and iron ions bound with sulfur.

Due to its composition, chalcopyrite undergoes specific mining and processing techniques to separate copper from other elements. Typically, the ore is crushed and subjected to flotation to concentrate the copper-rich particles. Chalcopyrite's significance in metallurgy stems not only from its abundance but also from its complex chemical structure, which challenges and advances metallurgical technology.

Copper and Iron Ores

Copper and iron are essential metals with widespread industrial applications, found in various ores. It is rare to find these metals naturally in their free states due to their high chemical reactivity. Instead, they are most often extracted from ores.

• Ores like chalcopyrite provide valuable sources for these metals. Chalcopyrite, specifically, serves as a key ore for copper, also furnishing iron in the process.
• These elements are extracted through mining and refining procedures that harness their unique properties and separate them from other constituents.

Copper, known for its excellent conductivity, malleability, and corrosion resistance, is utilized in electrical wiring, plumbing, and renewable energy technologies. Iron, known for its strength and hardness, is a critical component in steel manufacturing. Each ore has distinct properties influencing its economic value and extraction complexity. Understanding the types and compositions of these ores is crucial in metallurgical chemistry, as it guides the development of innovative and efficient extraction methods.