The Question is from neet-chemistry general-principles-and-processes-of-isolation-of-e , and it was created by the author Mr. S M HUSSAIN

Question

In the extraction of copper from its matte, the role of silica is primarily as a:

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: B
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Metallurgy of Copper Extraction
 **Related Topics**: Flux, Slag Formation, Bessemer Converter
 **Prerequisites**: Understanding of chemical reactions in metallurgical processes, knowledge of oxides and silicates.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
  The question asks about the role of silica in copper matte extraction.
  Copper matte is a mixture of copper sulfides ($Cu_2S$) and iron sulfides ($FeS$).
**Method & Steps**:
 1. Understanding the process:
  Reasoning: During copper extraction, the copper matte is treated in a Bessemer converter.  The process involves blowing air through the molten matte to oxidize the iron sulfide.
  Formula/Rule: $2FeS + 3O_2 ightarrow 2FeO + 2SO_2$
 2. Role of Silica:
  Working: The iron(II) oxide ($FeO$) formed reacts with silica ($SiO_2$) to form a slag.  This slag is less dense than the molten copper and floats on top, allowing for easy separation.
  Formula/Rule: $FeO + SiO_2 ightarrow FeSiO_3$ (Iron silicate slag)
  Key Point: Silica acts as a flux, which is a substance used to remove impurities from a metal by forming a slag.
 3. Final Step:
  Result: Silica's primary role is to remove ferrous oxide as slag.
  Verification: The formation of iron silicate slag is a crucial step in the copper extraction process, enabling the separation of copper from impurities.
 ## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x: Reducing agent for copper oxide: Silica is not a reducing agent in this process; the oxidation of iron sulfide is the key reducing step.
B ✓: Flux to remove ferrous oxide as slag: This correctly describes the function of silica. 
C :x: Oxidizing agent for sulphide ores: Silica is not an oxidizing agent; oxygen from the air provides the oxidation.
D :x: Electrolyte in the electrolytic refining process: Electrolytic refining happens after the matte stage; silica is not involved in this step.
 ## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1.Confusing silica's role with that of a reducing agent:  Remember that silica's role is to form a slag, not to reduce oxides.
  2.Forgetting the purpose of slag formation: Slag formation is vital for separating impurities from the molten metal.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1.Remember the key reaction: $FeO + SiO_2 ightarrow FeSiO_3$
  2.Associate silica with slag formation in metallurgical processes.

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Answer

Reducing agent for copper oxide.

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Answer

The correct Option is "Flux to remove ferrous oxide as slag."

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Answer

Oxidizing agent for sulphide ores.

Mr. S M HUSSAIN · Answer

Electrolyte in the electrolytic refining process.

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