Chapter 7.11, Problem 7.15YT

Skill Building Metal Refining (Smelting)

The nickel–metal hydride battery used in power tools and the lead–acid battery used in cars require nickel and lead, respectively. These metals are smelted from sulfur-containing ores such as NiS and PbS.

1. a. Name three attributes that distinguish a metal from a nonmetal.

   Hint: Review Section 1.6.

2. b. To produce elemental nickel, oxygen gas is reacted with an ore of nickel and sulfur, represented as NiS:

$\text{NiS}(\text{s})+{\text{O}}_2(g)\to \text{Ni}(\text{s})+{\text{SO}}_2(g)$

  Is Ni in the ore oxidized or reduced?

1. c. Write the analogous chemical equation for lead, and again identify the species oxidized and reduced.
2. d. Why is the release of SO₂ a serious problem?

   Hint: Revisit Chapter 2.