Name the ore of mercury and state the form in which it is found in nature. Write the chemical equations along with the condition required for the reactions involved in the extraction of mercury from its ore.

1. Ore of Mercury: Cinnabar.
2. Form in Nature: It is found in the form of a sulphide ore, chemically known as Mercury(II) sulphide ($\text{HgS}$).
3. Chemical Equations and Conditions for Extraction:

• Step 1 (Roasting): Cinnabar is heated strongly in the presence of excess air (oxygen) to convert it into mercury(II) oxide ($\text{HgO}$).

$$2\text{HgS(s)} + 3\text{O}_2\text{(g)} \xrightarrow{\text{Heat}} 2\text{HgO(s)} + 2\text{SO}_2\text{(g)}$$

• Step 2 (Reduction): The mercury(II) oxide is then reduced to mercury metal upon further heating.

$$2\text{HgO(s)} \xrightarrow{\text{Heat}} 2\text{Hg(l)} + \text{O}_2\text{(g)}$$