Why is the extraction of copper from pyrites more difficult than that from its oxide ore through reduction?


The Gibbs free energy formation ( ΔfG) of Cu2S is less than that of H2S and CS2. Therefore, H2 and C cannot reduce Cu2S to Cu.


On the other hand, the Gibbs free energy formation of Cu2O is greater than that of CO. hence, C can reduce Cu2O to Cu.


C (s) + Cu2O (s) 2Cu (s) + CO (g)


Hence, the extraction of copper from its pyrite ore is difficult than from its oxide ore through reduction.


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