3 (a) (i) Name the type of reaction that happens when a metal carbonate is heated - AQA - GCSE Chemistry - Question 3 - 2016 - Paper 1

The solid product formed when copper carbonate is heated is copper oxide.

The potassium carbonate did not react or decompose when heated, as indicated by the mass remaining unchanged at the end of the heating period. The limewater did not turn cloudy, which means that no carbon dioxide was produced. This suggests that potassium carbonate is relatively stable under the heating conditions used.

The reactivity series can be employed to predict that carbonates of more reactive metals will decompose or react more easily when heated. For example, if a metal is higher in the reactivity series, its carbonate is expected to show signs of decomposition more readily compared to that of a metal lower in the series.

Iron ores must contain enough iron to allow for economical extraction of the metal.

The balanced equation is:

1. Iron from the blast furnace tends to be brittle, and converting it to steel enhances its strength and durability.

2. Steel has specific uses, as it is more flexible and resistant to rust, making it suitable for various applications including construction and automotive manufacturing.

1. Recycling steel conserves iron ore and reduces the environmental impact associated with mining and extraction processes.

2. Recycling minimizes pollution and energy resource consumption, thus contributing to more sustainable manufacturing practices.

3. Steel recycling helps reduce landfill use, preserving space and preventing potential environmental hazards associated with discarded materials.