How is copper extracted from low grade copper ores?

Answer

Copper is extracted by hydrometallurgy from low grade copper ores. It is leached out using acid or bacteria The solution containing `Cu^(2+)` is treated with scrap iron, `Zn` or `H_(2)`
`2Cu^(2+) (aq) + H_(2)(g) rarr 2Cu(s) +2H^(+) (aq)`
`Cu^(2+) +Fe(s) rarr Fe^(2+) (aq) + Cu(s)`