Balancing Redox Equations: Half Reaction Method

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on balancing redox equations using the half-reaction method, specifically for the reaction of chlorate ion (ClO3-) with arsenic trisulfide (As2S3) in acidic solution. The proposed half-reactions are ClO3- to Cl- and As2S3 to H2AsO4- and HSO4-. Participants emphasize the necessity of including H+ ions or H3O+ for balancing and maintaining atom equality on both sides of the equation. The conversation highlights the importance of correctly identifying half-reactions to achieve accurate balancing.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of redox reactions and oxidation states
  • Familiarity with the half-reaction method for balancing equations
  • Knowledge of acidic solution chemistry, including the role of H+ ions
  • Experience with net ionic equations and their formulation
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the half-reaction method in detail for redox reactions
  • Learn how to balance redox equations in acidic and basic solutions
  • Explore the concept of oxidation states and their calculation
  • Practice writing net ionic equations for various chemical reactions
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, educators, and professionals involved in chemical analysis or reaction balancing will benefit from this discussion.

Soaring Crane
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I have been staring at the following problem, and I can't seem to get the correct answer. I tried using half reactions and the oxidation number method, but I don't know which works best.

Write balance net ionic equations for reaction in acidic solution.

ClO3- (aq) + As2S3 (s) --> Cl- (aq) + H2AsO4- (aq) + HSO4- (aq)

For the half reaction method, which 2 reactions do I divide this into?
I tried this way,

ClO3- --> Cl-
As2S3 --> H2AsO4- + HSO4-

but I suppose this is wrong.

Any help, especially with the half reaction method, is welcome and needed.
 
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Any volunteers?

Thanks again.
 
It would seem one needs H+ or H3O+ to balance the equation.

The number of atoms must be the same on both sides.

Also on could use H2O also, as in CaO + H2O -> Ca(OH)2
 

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