The following two reactions are possible methods for refining copper in the final step of a smelting process, i. e., getting pure copper (Cu) from copper ores found in rocks. Calculate the theoretical atom economy for each reaction. a. 2 CuO (s) + C (s) → 2 Cu (s) + CO2 (g)

b. CuO (s) + CO (g) → Cu (s) + CO2 (g)

3. Use your calculations from the previous question (i. e., 2a and 2b) to answer the following questions.
a. Which one of the methods for refining copper ore is greener according to the atom economy principle of green chemistry?

b. Why is a calculation of atom economy helpful in comparing two chemical reactions to
determine which one is greener? In other words, what does atom economy tell you about “greenness”?

c. What is another possible consideration from the principles of green chemistry that could tell you more about comparing the “greenness” of these two reactions?

4. How are the two ways of measuring the efficiency (atom economy and percent yield) of a reaction the same? How do they differ?