S = Zinc extraction

Question 1

Name of the zinc ore? What compound does it contain most of?

Answer 1

Name: Zinc blende

It’s mainly zinc sulfide

Question 2

Steps of zinc extraction + the equations

Answer 2

1. Roast the zinc blende

2ZnS + 3CO2 –> 2ZnO + 2SO2

OXIDE CAN BE REDUCED BY 2 WAYS

A = Using CO (approx 907 degrees C):

ZnO + CO –> Zn + CO2

B = Electrolysis:

Zinc is deposited at the cathode.

Zn2+(aq) + 2e- –> Zn(s)

Question 3

Carbon monoxide role?

Answer 3

Reducing agent

Question 4

Why use electrolysis to extract zinc?

Answer 4

The zinc extracted by electrolysis is at very high purity where as with using CO the zinc is not pure and you’ll need to take further steps to remove the impurities.