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A blast furnace may be used in the extraction of iron from iron ore - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question B - 2006
Question B
A blast furnace may be used in the extraction of iron from iron ore. (i) What materials must be added to a blast furnace in operation? (ii) Name the principal re... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A blast furnace may be used in the extraction of iron from iron ore - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question B - 2006
Step 1
What materials must be added to a blast furnace in operation?
Answer
To operate a blast furnace for iron extraction, the following materials are essential:
- Iron Ore: This includes:
- Haematite (Fe₂O₃)
- Magnetite (Fe₃O₄)
- Siderite (FeCO₃)
- Pyrite (FeS₂).
- Coke (C): This is used as the primary fuel and reducing agent.
- Limestone (Calcium Carbonate, CaCO₃): This acts as a flux to remove impurities.
- Hot Air: Injected into the furnace to maintain high temperatures necessary for the reduction process.
Step 2
Name the principal reducing agent in the blast furnace and write a balanced equation for its reaction with haematite (Fe₂O₃).
Answer
The principal reducing agent in the blast furnace is carbon monoxide (CO). The balanced equation for its reaction with haematite is as follows:
ightarrow 2 ext{Fe} + 3 ext{CO}_2$$Step 3
Why is the pig iron produced in a blast furnace further processed into steel?
Answer
Pig iron is produced with a high carbon content, making it brittle and less useful. Further processing into steel is important because:
- Greater Demand for Steel: Steel is more in demand due to its versatility and strength compared to pig iron.
- Usability: Steel can be reworked, while pig iron is less malleable and more prone to rust.
- Quality Improvement: The removal of excess carbon from pig iron improves its properties and makes it suitable for various industrial applications.