Number of electrons to balance redox reaction

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on balancing the redox reaction I2(s) + 12OH-(aq) → 2IO3-(aq) + 6H2O(l) + 10e-. The oxidation state of iodine increases from 0 to +5, necessitating the addition of 10 electrons to balance the reaction. Participants emphasize the importance of first balancing the atoms before addressing the charge balance, as demonstrated in the provided examples.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of redox reactions and half-reactions
  • Knowledge of oxidation states and their significance
  • Familiarity with balancing chemical equations
  • Basic skills in stoichiometry
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the half-reaction method for balancing redox reactions
  • Learn about oxidation states and their calculations
  • Explore examples of balancing complex redox reactions
  • Review stoichiometric principles in chemical equations
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Chemistry students, educators, and anyone involved in learning or teaching redox reactions and chemical equation balancing.

terryds
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Homework Statement



What number of electrons to balance the equation
##I_2(s)+OH^-(aq)\rightarrow IO_3^-(aq)+H_2O(l)##

The Attempt at a Solution


I see that the oxidation state of I increases from 0 to +5
But, I don't see any reduction at the reaction..
So, I don't understand how to balance the reaction
And I don't know how to get the number of required electrons to balance the reaction
 
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There is no reduction because this is only a half reaction, where electrons are listed as a reagent. Just like Fe(II) to Fe(III) oxidation can be written as

Fe2+ → Fe3+ + e-
 
Borek said:
There is no reduction because this is only a half reaction, where electrons are listed as a reagent. Just like Fe(II) to Fe(III) oxidation can be written as

Fe2+ → Fe3+ + e-

So, the number of electron required to balance the equation is 5 electron, right? Since the oxidation state increases by 5
 
Borek said:
No, it is not that easy. First, balance atoms - they are not balanced at the moment. After that, add enough electrons to balance the charge. See examples here: http://www.chembuddy.com/?left=balancing-stoichiometry&right=half-reactions-method

Don't look at oxidation numbers at all.

Balance all atoms
##I_2(s)+12OH^-(aq)\rightarrow 2IO_3^-(aq)+6H_2O(l)##charges in left : -12
charges in right: -2

So, there should be 10 electrons added to the right side of reaction, right??
 
Yes, that's correct.

I2 + 12OH- → 2IO3- + 6H2O + 10e-
 

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