Need help balancing this chemical equation?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around balancing a chemical equation involving silver sulfide (Ag2S) and nitrous acid (HNO2), with participants exploring the oxidation and reduction processes involved. The scope includes chemical equation balancing and potential errors in reactants and products.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the equation Ag2S + HNO2 -> Ag2SO4 + NO2 + H2O and seeks help with balancing it.
  • Another participant questions what is being oxidized and reduced in the reaction.
  • Some participants suggest that HNO2 may be incorrect and propose HNO3 instead, stating that the equation cannot balance with HNO2.
  • There is a mention of counting elements on each side of the reaction to find coefficients, with a suggestion that the reaction may resemble a dehydration reaction.
  • One participant asserts that their original equation is correct and indicates that they discussed it in class.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the correct acid to use in the reaction, with some insisting on HNO2 and others suggesting HNO3. The discussion remains unresolved as to the correct balancing of the equation.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of potential mistakes in the reactants and products, and some participants note the need to clarify the nature of the reaction. The discussion includes assumptions about the chemical behavior of the compounds involved.

donniemsb_12
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Ag(subscript of 2)S + HNO(subscript of 2) -> Ag(subs.2)SO(subs.4) + NO(subs.2) +H(subs2)O

TNX! PO!
 
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So, Ag2S + HNO2 -> Ag2SO4 + NO2 + H2O ?

What's being oxidised? What's being reduced? What stays the same?
 
In the future, you'll want to ask homework questions under
Physicsforums -> Science Education -> Homework & Coursework

There is probably a mistake on your products side. Instead of HNO2, it's probably HNO3, nitric acid. The equation cannot balance with HNO2.

To find your coefficients:

Count and mark the number of elements on each side of the reaction.
Looking at your oxygens should get you the solution quickly.

Wait, this kind of looks like a dehydration reaction. Make sure about your silver compounds too.
 
Last edited:
fedaykin said:
There is probably a mistake on your products side. Instead of HNO2, it's probably HNO3, nitric acid. The equation cannot balance with HNO2.

You mean reagents side, don't you?
 
Indeed I did, my apologies.
 
my given is correct . and we answer it in while we were on our class :)
 
donniemsb_12 said:
my given is correct . and we answer it in while we were on our class :)

So, what is the answer then?
 

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