Number of electrons to balance redox reaction

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around balancing a redox half-reaction involving iodine and hydroxide ions, specifically the equation I2(s) + OH-(aq) → IO3-(aq) + H2O(l). Participants explore how to determine the number of electrons needed for balancing the reaction.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that the oxidation state of iodine increases from 0 to +5 but is confused about the lack of reduction in the reaction.
  • Another participant explains that there is no reduction because it is a half-reaction, where electrons are treated as a reagent.
  • Some participants suggest that the number of electrons required to balance the equation is 5, based on the change in oxidation state.
  • Others argue that balancing atoms should be prioritized before considering electron addition, stating that the initial equation is not balanced as presented.
  • One participant provides a balanced equation and calculates that 10 electrons should be added to the right side of the reaction to achieve charge balance.
  • A later reply confirms the calculation of 10 electrons as correct.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the approach to balancing the reaction, with some advocating for focusing on oxidation states while others emphasize atom balancing first. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the method to determine the number of electrons required.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of balancing both atoms and charges, but there is no agreement on the methodology or the initial interpretation of the reaction.

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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