Extracting copper from ores: smelting, bioleaching, phytomining

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1. Extracting Copper from Copper-Rich ores

   • Using sulphuric acid to produce copper sulfate solution, then extracting the copper, using displacement with iron.
     • ie. Iron + Copper Sulfate ---> Iron Sulfate + Copper
   • Using smelting (heating the copper ore very strongly with air to produce crude copper.)
     • Copper found in an ore called chalcocite can be extracted by smelting
       • Copper (i) Sulfide + Oxygen ---> Copper + Sulfer Dioxide
         • Sulfuric acid can cause acidic rain, so chimneys are fitted with 'scrubbers' to neutralise acidic gas
       • After smelting we use the impure copper as a positive electrode in electrolysis cells to make pure copper.
         • This method creates very pure copper, which can be used for wires.
   • Smelting and purifiying copper requires large amounts of heat and electricity.
     • This can cost a lot and have an impact on the environment

2. Extracting Copper from Low-Grade Copper Ores

   • Bioleaching
     • Bacteria feed on low-grade metal ores
     • Through biological and chemic processes we can get a solution of copper ions from waster copper ore
       • Then we can use iron in a displacement reaction to displace the copper
     • Very slow process
   • Phytomining
     • Plants absorb copper ions from low-grade copper ores as they grow
     • Plants are burned and metals extracted from ash
     • Copper can be leached from ash by adding sulphuric then using a displacement reaction with iron.
       • ie. Iron + Copper Sulfate ---> Iron Sulfate + Copper

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