Balancing disproportionation redox reaction

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around balancing a disproportionation redox reaction involving chlorine and hydroxide ions. Participants explore the correct balancing of the reaction and the methodology used in redox reactions.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents their attempt at balancing the reaction Cl2 + OH- → Cl- + ClO- and details their step-by-step process.
  • Another participant points out a discrepancy in the number of chlorine atoms between the proposed balanced equation and the original reaction.
  • A third participant emphasizes the importance of checking the balance of elements and charge in both the overall and half reactions.
  • The original poster acknowledges their oversight regarding the balance of chlorine and expresses gratitude for the feedback.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion shows that there is no consensus on the initial balancing method, as the original poster's approach contained an error that was identified by other participants.

Contextual Notes

The original poster's method was based on a misunderstanding of the balancing process, particularly regarding the number of chlorine atoms. There were no corrections to the underlying principles of redox reactions discussed.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students learning about redox reactions, particularly those focusing on balancing chemical equations and understanding disproportionation reactions.

erisedk
Messages
372
Reaction score
7

Homework Statement


Complete and balance the following reaction:
Cl2 + OH- → Cl- + ClO-

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


So, I did it like any other redox:
Cl2 + 2e- → 2Cl-
2Cl2 + 4OH- → 2ClO- + 2H2O + 2e-

Net reaction: 3Cl2 + 4OH- → 2Cl- + 2ClO- + 2H2O

However, the answer is Cl2 + 2OH- → Cl- + ClO- + H2O

So I googled and found this: https://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20090410003712AApVw5v
But why is my method wrong?
 
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The reaction you propose has six chlorine atoms on the left, but only four on the right.
 
erisedk said:
2Cl2 + 4OH- → 2ClO- + 2H2O + 2e-

If in doubt, check if elements and charge are balanced in all reactions and half reactions.
 
Sorry! I balanced and rechecked everything besides Cl itself.
Thanks!
 

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