Test: Copper- Properties, Uses and Extraction from its Ores - JAMB MCQ

Froth flotation is a commonly used process for the extraction of copper from sulphide ores. In this process, the ore is crushed and ground to a fine powder. It is then mixed with water and various chemicals, including froth collectors and froth stabilizers. Air is blown into the mixture, causing the copper minerals to float on the surface in the form of a froth, which can be skimmed off.

Copper is primarily extracted from copper ores, and one of the commonly occurring copper ores is malachite. Malachite is a green mineral that contains copper carbonate. It is often found in association with other copper minerals and is an important source of copper.

Copper is an excellent conductor of electricity because of the presence of free electrons in its atomic structure. Copper has one valence electron in its outer shell, which is loosely held by the nucleus. These electrons are easily mobilized and can move freely through the lattice, allowing for efficient conduction of electricity.

Copper(II) oxide can be reduced to copper by carbon monoxide gas in the presence of heat. This is known as a thermite reaction. Carbon monoxide acts as a reducing agent, donating oxygen to copper(II) oxide and converting it into copper metal.

Nitric acid (HNO₃) is commonly used as an oxidizing agent in the preparation of copper(II) tetraoxosulphate(VI). Nitric acid oxidizes copper metal to copper(II) ions, which then react with sulphuric acid to form copper(II) tetraoxosulphate(VI).

The formula of copper(II) tetraoxosulphate(VI) is CuSO₄. It is also known as copper sulphate. The Roman numeral II indicates that copper is in the +2 oxidation state.

Copper(II) tetraoxosulphate(VI) crystals are blue in color. This blue color is often observed when copper sulphate is dissolved in water or in the solid crystalline form.

Copper is commonly used in the construction of electrical wires due to its excellent electrical conductivity. Copper wires are preferred for transmitting electricity because they offer low resistance and minimize energy loss.

When copper reacts with oxygen in the presence of moisture, it forms a greenish layer called the patina layer. This layer is composed of various copper compounds, such as copper hydroxide and copper carbonate, and it acts as a protective coating against further corrosion.

Bronze is an alloy that contains copper as one of its major components. It is composed primarily of copper, with the addition of other elements, such as tin, aluminum, or nickel. Bronze is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for various applications like statues, musical instruments, and bearings.