Chapter 12, Problem 51E

An important source of copper is from the copper ore, chalcocite, a form of copper (I) sulfide. When heated, the Cu₂S decomposes to form copper and sulfur described by the following equation:

${\text{Cu}}_{\text{2}}\text{S}\left(s\right)\to \text{ Cu}\left(s\right)\text{+S}(s)$

(a) Determine $\Delta G°$ for the decomposition of Cu₂S(s).

b) The reaction of sulfur with oxygen yields sulfur dioxide as the only product. Write an equation that describes this reaction, and determine $\Delta G°$ for the process.

(c) The production of copper from chalcocite is performed by roasting the Cu₂S in air to produce the Cu. By combining the equations from Parts (a) and (b), write the equation that describes the roasting of the chalcocite, and explain why coupling these reactions together makes for a more efficient process for the production of the copper.