In the exteraction of copper from its sulphide ore, the metal is fanally obtained by the reduction of caprous oxide with

Options

A. Iron sulphide (FeS)
B. Carbon monoxide (CO)
C. Copper (1) sulphide `(Cu_(2)S)`
D. Sulphur dioxide `(SO_(2))`

Explanation

To solve the question regarding the extraction of copper from its sulfide ore, we need to understand the reduction process involved. Here's a step-by-step breakdown:

### Step 1: Identify the Ore
Copper is primarily extracted from its sulfide ore, specifically chalcopyrite (CuFeS2) or chalcocite (Cu2S). In the extraction process, copper is converted into cuprous oxide (Cu2O) through roasting.

### Step 2: Understand the Reduction Process
The question asks about the reduction of cuprous oxide (Cu2O) to obtain copper metal. Reduction is a chemical reaction that involves the gain of electrons or the removal of oxygen.

### Step 3: Identify the Reducing Agent
In the extraction of copper, cuprous oxide (Cu2O) can be reduced using a suitable reducing agent. The options provided are:
- Iron sulfide
- Carbon monoxide
- Copper sulfide
- Sulfur dioxide

### Step 4: Analyze the Options
- **Iron sulfide (FeS)**: This can act as a reducing agent, but it's not the most common method.
- **Carbon monoxide (CO)**: This is a well-known reducing agent used in metallurgy.
- **Copper sulfide (Cu2S)**: This is a key player in the self-reduction process of copper.
- **Sulfur dioxide (SO2)**: This is a product of the reaction, not a reducing agent.

### Step 5: Determine the Correct Reducing Agent
In the context of the extraction of copper, the self-reduction process occurs when cuprous oxide (Cu2O) reacts with copper(I) sulfide (Cu2S). The reaction can be summarized as follows:

\[ \text{Cu}_2\text{O} + \text{Cu}_2\text{S} \rightarrow 2\text{Cu} + \text{SO}_2 \]

This indicates that copper(I) sulfide (Cu2S) is indeed the reducing agent that facilitates the reduction of cuprous oxide to copper metal.

### Conclusion
Thus, the correct answer to the question is **copper(I) sulfide (Cu2S)**.