Which of the following metal can be extracted without using reducing agent?

Options

A. Sn
B. Pb
C. Fe
D. Both (1) & (2)

Answer

To determine which metal can be extracted without using a reducing agent, we need to analyze the options provided: Sn (Tin), Pb (Lead), Fe (Iron), and the possibility of both Sn and Pb.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Concept of Electropositivity**:
- Electropositivity refers to the tendency of an element to lose electrons and form positive ions. Metals that are less electropositive can be reduced more easily than those that are more electropositive.

2. **Analyze Each Metal**:
- **Sn (Tin)**: Tin is considered to be a moderately electropositive metal. It typically requires a reducing agent for extraction from its ores.
- **Pb (Lead)**: Lead is less electropositive compared to Sn and Fe. It can be extracted from its ores without the need for an external reducing agent.
- **Fe (Iron)**: Iron is more electropositive and generally requires a reducing agent (like carbon) for extraction from its ores.

3. **Reduction Potential**:
- Metals with higher standard reduction potential can be reduced without an external reducing agent. Lead has a higher reduction potential compared to Sn and Fe, which allows it to be extracted from its sulfide ore through partial oxidation.

4. **Extraction Process for Lead**:
- The extraction of lead involves the following reactions:
- The sulfide ore (PbS) reacts with oxygen to form lead oxide (PbO) and sulfur dioxide (SO2).
- The lead oxide (PbO) can then react with remaining PbS to yield elemental lead (Pb) and more SO2.
- This process shows that lead can be reduced without the need for an external reducing agent.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Based on the analysis, the metal that can be extracted without using a reducing agent is **Lead (Pb)**.

### Final Answer:
**Lead (Pb)** can be extracted without using a reducing agent.

---