Problem 83 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

Cinnabar is an ore of (a) \(\mathrm{Cu}\) (b) \(\mathrm{Zn}\) (c) \(\mathrm{Hg}\) (d) \(\mathrm{Pb}\)

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Cinnabar is an ore of mercury (Hg).

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question asks about the metal that can be extracted from the mineral cinnabar. Among the given options, we need to identify which element is associated with cinnabar.

Step 2: Identifying Cinnabar

Cinnabar is a mineral with the chemical formula HgS. Its primary component is mercury sulfide.

Step 3: Associating Cinnabar with the Metal

Since cinnabar is primarily composed of mercury sulfide, it is directly associated with the extraction of mercury (Hg). Therefore, cinnabar is an ore of mercury.

Step 4: Verifying the Answer

We have identified that cinnabar's composition, HgS, indicates it is an ore from which mercury is extracted. Given that mercury is represented by Hg, the correct answer is option (c) Hg.

Key Concepts

Ore Identification

Cinnabar is a mineral that contains valuable metals which can be extracted and used for various purposes. Identifying ores like cinnabar involves understanding their appearance, composition, and properties. Cinnabar is easily recognizable due to its distinct bright red color. This vibrant hue is a key characteristic that helps in its identification. Beyond its color, another way to identify cinnabar is through its chemical composition.

• It primarily consists of mercury sulfide, with the chemical formula HgS.
• This formula indicates that the mineral contains mercury and sulfur.

Recognizing cinnabar in nature is crucial for extracting mercury effectively. By knowing its physical properties and composition, miners and geologists can locate economically viable sources of mercury around the world.

Mercury Extraction

From the mineral cinnabar, mercury can be extracted through a series of processes involving heat. The extraction process makes use of the chemical properties of cinnabar, specifically its composition of mercury sulfide.

• To extract mercury, the cinnabar ore is heated in a furnace.
• The heat causes the mercury sulfide to decompose, releasing mercury vapor.
• This vapor is then condensed into liquid mercury through cooling.

This method of mercury extraction is efficient and has been used historically because of its simplicity and effectiveness. The mercury extracted is then purified and used in a variety of applications, including thermometers, barometers, and other scientific instruments.

Chemical Formulas

Chemical formulas are essential for understanding what a mineral like cinnabar is made of. In the case of cinnabar, the chemical formula is HgS.

• "Hg" represents mercury, a heavy, silvery metal.
• "S" stands for sulfur, a nonmetal known for its distinct yellow color in pure form.
• The combination of these two elements forms mercury sulfide, a stable compound that makes up cinnabar.

Chemical formulas serve as a quick reference that provides insight into the types of atoms and their ratios in a substance. For cinnabar, the formula HgS not only reveals its makeup but also guides the process of extracting mercury. Understanding these formulas is crucial in the fields of chemistry and geology, as they offer vital information about the properties and reactions of minerals and other substances.