A deep-dive into the thermodynamics of the Iron Blast Furnace reveals that the reduction of the prim — Metallurgy and Isolation of Elements Chemistry Question
Question
A deep-dive into the thermodynamics of the Iron Blast Furnace reveals that the reduction of the primary ore, $Fe_2O_3$, by rising $CO$ gas does not occur in a single step but proceeds through a sequence of oxide intermediates. Which of the following represents the correct thermodynamic sequence of these iron oxides as they descend the furnace?
Answer: B
💡 Solution & Explanation
As the ore descends and the temperature increases, $Fe_2O_3$ is progressively reduced to states of lower oxygen content. The sequence begins at the top with $3Fe_2O_3 + CO \rightarrow 2Fe_3O_4 + CO_2$. Further down, $Fe_3O_4 + CO \rightarrow 3FeO + CO_2$. Finally, $FeO + CO \rightarrow Fe + CO_2$.
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