Chemistry Balancing Redox Reactions

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on balancing the redox reaction H2 + O2 → H2O. Participants clarify that hydrogen acts as the reducing agent and oxygen as the oxidizing agent due to their respective oxidation states of +1 and -2. There is confusion about the balancing process, with one user expressing difficulty in understanding the relationship between oxidation numbers and the overall charge of the molecule. It is noted that while balancing as a redox reaction is possible, it may not be necessary for achieving the same balanced equation. Ultimately, the focus remains on balancing the reaction in terms of moles and redox processes.
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Homework Statement



H_{2} + O_{2} \rightarrow H_{2}O

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Well, my classmates insist that H= +1 and O= -2 (in the products side)
so, my Hydrogen will be my Reducing agent because it underwent Oxidation and my Oxygen will be my Oxidizing agent because it underwent Reduction

Reduction: O_{2} \rightarrow H_{2}O
Oxidation: H_{2} \rightarrow H_{2}O

From here on, I can't understand anything.

Well, I need to know what to do here. I was told by this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyKiYz-YpSw

Particularly in 4:09, in that problem, she said that H_{2}O has a charge of 0. I know that Hydrogen and Oxygen in the reactants side has 0 charge / oxidation number too because it is in its "pure" form. So, is this equation "BALANCE-able" ??
 
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Molecule of H2O is neutral (has a charge of 0), but oxidation numbers of oxygen and hydrogen in the molecule are -2 and +1 respectively. They just cancel out in the molecule.
 
Borek said:
Molecule of H2O is neutral (has a charge of 0), but oxidation numbers of oxygen and hydrogen in the molecule are -2 and +1 respectively. They just cancel out in the molecule.

ooh. Now I get it. Sorry for the dumb question. She just did it faster and not saying that the charges cancel each other. Thanks. :)
But, what is the overall reaction? The balanced one with the electrons and such. I can't understand it.
 
I don't like the video, it is slightly chaotic.

While H2/O2 is a redox reaction, trying to balance it as a redox is a waste of time. Are you asked to balance it as redox, or just to balance? Final effect will be exactly the same.
 
Borek said:
I don't like the video, it is slightly chaotic.

While H2/O2 is a redox reaction, trying to balance it as a redox is a waste of time. Are you asked to balance it as redox, or just to balance? Final effect will be exactly the same.

Yeah, we are asked to balance it (as in moles)
then as redox. Sorry for the late reply.
 
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