STUDENT SPACE · TOPIC 2

Iron extraction in the blast furnace

Explain the five required reactions and the role of each raw material.

The essentials

Hematite, coke and limestone enter at the top. A blast of hot air supplies oxygen near the bottom.
C + O₂ → CO₂ releases heat. Then C + CO₂ → 2CO produces the reducing agent.
Heat decomposes limestone: CaCO₃ → CaO + CO₂. Calcium oxide is a basic oxide.

Try each question before opening its hint or answer. Use paper for calculations and diagrams.

A student says limestone reduces the iron ore. Correct the statement.

Need a hint for Question 1?

Start with the purpose of the raw material. Separate reduction of the ore from removal of silica.

Check Question 1

CO reduces the iron ore. Limestone produces CaO, which removes silica as slag.

Write the two equations that make carbon monoxide from coke and oxygen.

Need a hint for Question 2?

Coke first burns, then reacts with the gas produced.

Check Question 2

C + O₂ → CO₂; C + CO₂ → 2CO.

Name the reducing agent and write the equation that produces iron from hematite.

Need a hint for Question 3?

Balance the oxygen removed from iron(III) oxide.

Check Question 3

Carbon monoxide; Fe₂O₃ + 3CO → 2Fe + 3CO₂.

Use Lesson 2 in your worksheet for written practice. Your teacher will discuss those answers in class.