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Question

In the leaching of gold with cyanide, the role of oxygen is BEST described as:

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: [C]
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
	**Primary Concept**: Gold leaching process and the role of oxygen in chemical reactions
	**Related Topics**: Cyanide process, oxidation-reduction reactions
	**Prerequisites**: Understanding of chemical reaction types and the role of different agents in reactions
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
		1. Gold is leached using cyanide.
		2. Oxygen is involved in the chemical reaction.
**Method & Steps**:
	1. Identify the role of oxygen in the cyanide leaching process.
		Reasoning: Oxygen is necessary for the oxidation of gold ions.
		Formula/Rule: 
		The leaching reaction can be simplified as: 
		$$ 	ext{4 Au} + 	ext{8 NaCN} + 	ext{O}_2 + 	ext{2 H}_2	ext{O} ightarrow 	ext{4 Na[Au(CN)}_2] + 	ext{4 NaOH} $$
	2. Determine the chemical behavior of oxygen in the context of this reaction.
		Working: In this reaction, oxygen acts to oxidize gold, allowing it to form a soluble complex.
		Key Point: Oxygen is an oxidizing agent in this reaction.
	3. Conclude the role of oxygen in forming the soluble gold complex.
		Result: Thus, oxygen facilitates the formation of a soluble gold complex.
		Verification: This confirms that oxygen's role aligns with option C.
## OPTION ANALYSIS
[A] :x: [Reducing agent generally donates electrons; oxygen is not donating electrons in this reaction.]
[B] :x: [Oxygen does not directly form the gold complex; it facilitates the process via oxidation.]
[C] ✓: [Correct! Oxygen acts as an oxidizing agent, facilitating the formation of a soluble gold complex.]
[D] :x: [Oxygen is not a catalyst in this reaction; it is consumed in the process of oxidation.]
## LEARNING AIDS
	**Common Mistakes**:
		1. Confusing oxidizing and reducing agents: Remember, oxidizers take electrons while reducers give them.
		2. Misunderstanding the role of each chemical: Focus on the chemical equations and the roles of each component.
	**Quick Tips**:
		1. When studying leaching processes, always look for the oxidizing agents involved.
		2. Memorize the general reaction types in leaching processes for easier identification.

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Answer

Reducing agent, converting gold ions to metallic gold.

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Answer

Complexing agent, directly forming a soluble gold complex.

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Answer

The correct Option is "Oxidizing agent, facilitating the formation of a soluble gold complex."

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Answer

Catalyst, speeding up the dissolution process without being consumed.

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