Constructing balanced ionic equations

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on balancing the ionic equation for the reaction involving sulfur dioxide (SO2), bromine (Br2), and water (H2O). The correct balanced equation is SO2 + Br2 + 2H2O ----> SO4^-2 + 2Br^-1 + 4H^+1. Participants clarified that the initial book answer was incorrect due to an imbalance in oxygen and hydrogen atoms. The final consensus confirms the importance of checking both atom and charge balance in ionic equations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of ionic compounds and their charges
  • Knowledge of balancing chemical equations
  • Familiarity with oxidation states
  • Basic skills in stoichiometry
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of balancing redox reactions
  • Learn about oxidation states and their significance in reactions
  • Explore the concept of half-reactions in ionic equations
  • Practice with various examples of balancing ionic equations
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, educators, and anyone involved in chemical equation balancing will benefit from this discussion.

Priyadarshini
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Homework Statement


balance:
SO2 + Br2 + H2O -----> SO4 ^-2 + Br^-1 + H^+1

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I think the answer is:
SO2 + Br2 + 2H2O ----> SO4^-2 + 2Br^-1 + 2H^+1
But the answer in the book is:
SO2 + Br2 ----> SO4^-2 + 2Br^-1
Is my answer the correct one?
 
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Book answer can't be correct as the oxygen is not balanced.

Not that your answer is OK - count hydrogens on both sides, and see if the charge is balanced. Chances are it was just a typo on your side.
 
Borek said:
Book answer can't be correct as the oxygen is not balanced.

Not that your answer is OK - count hydrogens on both sides, and see if the charge is balanced. Chances are it was just a typo on your side.
Oh yeah, sorry. It should be SO2 + Br2 + 2H2O ----> SO4^-2 + 2Br^-1 + 4H^+1. Thanks!
 

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