What is the process of making copper oxide?

Well, firstly, there are two types of copper oxide. Copper (I) oxide, Cu2O. (Cuprous Oxide) and. Copper (II) oxide, CuO. (Cupric Oxide). So, I'll explain both. The most common way copper (I) oxide is formed is by oxidation of copper metal. 4Cu + O2 → 2Cu2O. This happens if you leave copper outside in air. read more

Copper (II) oxide is formed by a more simple process: You heat copper in air at about 300 - 800 °C (572 - 1472 °F). 2 Cu + O2 → 2 CuO. Obviously, not everyone has a furnace in their house. read more

I am making [black] Copper (II) Oxide by first dissolving Copper (II) Sulfate penta Hydrate (CuSO4 * 5H20) crystals in water to form an aqueous Cu+2 solution. Then I take Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) and add it to the Cu+2 solution. read more

Copper processing is a complicated process that begins with mining of the ore (less than 1% copper) and ends with sheets of 99.99% pure copper called cathodes, which will ultimately be made into products for everyday use. read more