- #1
escryan
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Homework Statement
Balance the equation for disproportionation reactions.
Homework Equations
S8(s) ----> S2-+S2O32- (basic solution)
The Attempt at a Solution
I attempted into do this with the ion electron method, obtaining an answer:
3S8 + 24OH- ----> 16S2- + 4S2O32- + 12H2O
However, I didn't follow the conventions that I was given, like using systematic steps to come to an answer... I was basically just guessing and checking, but I would like to know how to do it systematically.
Apparently though, I'm supposed to be doing my redox equations with the half reaction method instead.. which rather confuses me. When I attempted to do the half reaction...
reduction: S8 + 16e- ----> 8S2-
oxidation: 2S8 + 24OH- (?) ----> 4S2O32- + 8e- + 12H2O
The oxidation portion of the half reaction just doesn't seem to add up when I'm trying it.
I'd like to know if there is a systematic method to figuring out these sorts of equations so in the future I can have some sort of guideline in solving them. Help would be greatly appreciated :)!