The chemical composition of slag formed during the smelting process in the extraction of copper is

Options

A. `Cu_(2) O + FeS`
B. `FeSiO_(3)`
C. `CuFeS_(2)`
D. `Cu_(2)S + FeO`

Explanation

To determine the chemical composition of slag formed during the smelting process in the extraction of copper, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Ore and Impurities**:
- The concentrated sulphide ore of copper often contains impurities, primarily iron.

2. **Understand the Smelting Process**:
- During smelting, the concentrated ore is heated in a furnace. The heat causes the iron sulfide present in the ore to undergo a chemical transformation.

3. **Conversion of Iron Sulfide**:
- The iron sulfide (FeS) is converted into iron oxide (FeO) during the smelting process.

4. **Reaction with Silica**:
- The iron oxide then reacts with silica (SiO₂), which is added as a flux to help remove impurities.

5. **Formation of Slag**:
- The reaction between iron oxide and silica produces iron silicate (FeSiO₃), which is the slag formed during the extraction process.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the chemical composition of the slag formed during the smelting process in the extraction of copper is iron silicate, represented as FeSiO₃.

### Final Answer:
The chemical composition of slag formed during the smelting process in the extraction of copper is FeSiO₃ (iron silicate).

---