A metal that exists as a liquid at room temperature is obtained by heating its sulphide in the presence of air. Identify the metal and its ore and give the reaction involved.

Soln:

Mercury is the metal which is liquid at room temperature. Ore of Mercury is Cinnabar. When we heat cinnabar in atmospheric oxygen following reaction takes place.

2HgS + 3O₂ 2HgO + 2SO₂

Mercuric oxide is again heated to get Mercury and Oxygen 2HgO heat Hg+O₂