In the cyanide process for the extraction of silver, sodium cyanide is used to

Options

A. Convert silver into a soluble silver complex
B. Reduce silver
C. Precipitate silver
D. Oxidise silver

Answer

To solve the question regarding the role of sodium cyanide in the cyanide process for the extraction of silver, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Cyanide Process
The cyanide process, also known as the cyanidation process, is a method used to extract precious metals, particularly gold and silver, from their ores. In this process, the ore is treated with a cyanide solution.

**Hint:** Research the general principles of the cyanide extraction process to understand its significance in metallurgy.

### Step 2: Identify the Role of Sodium Cyanide
Sodium cyanide (NaCN) is a key reagent in this process. It serves to dissolve the metal from its ore by forming a complex with the metal ions.

**Hint:** Consider the chemical interactions that take place when sodium cyanide is mixed with silver ore.

### Step 3: Formation of Silver Complex
When sodium cyanide is added to the silver ore, it reacts with silver ions (Ag⁺) to form a soluble silver cyanide complex, specifically [Ag(CN)₂]⁻. This complex is soluble in water, allowing for the extraction of silver from the ore.

**Hint:** Look into the chemical equation that represents the formation of the silver cyanide complex.

### Step 4: Conclusion
Thus, the primary role of sodium cyanide in the cyanide process for the extraction of silver is to convert silver into a soluble silver complex, which can then be separated from the ore.

**Final Answer:** Sodium cyanide is used to convert silver into a soluble silver complex.

### Summary of Steps:
1. Understand the cyanide process.
2. Identify the role of sodium cyanide.
3. Recognize the formation of the soluble silver complex.
4. Conclude the function of sodium cyanide in the extraction process.