Solving Chemistry Problem: As + HNO3 -> H3AsNO4 + NO2 + H2O

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the chemical reaction involving arsenic (As) and concentrated nitric acid (HNO3), resulting in the formation of H3AsNO4, NO2, and H2O. Participants identified that the proposed product H3AsNO4 is incorrect, as no such compound exists. The conversation emphasizes the importance of balancing oxidation states, particularly noting that the oxidation number of nitrogen (N) does not change during the reaction, which complicates the balancing of the equation. The key takeaway is the necessity of verifying chemical formulas and understanding oxidation states to correctly balance chemical reactions.

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Homework Statement



As + HNO3 (consentrated) -> H3AsNO4 + NO2 + H2O

Homework Equations



none

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried doing the electron equation:

As (0) - 1 electron = As (1+) | 1
N (5+) + 1 electron = N (4+) | 1

I don't know if this is right. (The last 2 numbers are supposed to represent the numbers which should go in the equation before those elements.)
Think the oxydation level is supposed to change, but the sides don't balance out. What am I doing wrong? I just can't get this out of my head anymore.

Thanks in advance,
fawk3s
 
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What is formula of your As containing product? Seems to me something is wrong with the way you wrote it in the equation. What is ON of As after oxidation?

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Borek said:
What is formula of your As containing product? Seems to me something is wrong with the way you wrote it in the equation. What is ON of As after oxidation?

Im not sure actually. The equation was given like that and I am not even sure what the oxydation levels are supposed to be.
My task was only to balance the sides.
 
Borek said:
As far as I can tell formula of H3AsNO4 is wrong (no such compound) and equation can be not balanced.

Oxidation numbers you can easily calculate following simple rules.

Yeah, that would explain why I can't figure it out still after trying for an hour or so.

And yes, I know how to calculate the oxidation numbers, but if the oxidaton number of N didnt change during the reaction, then As has to be 0. And that would be odd.

Anyways, thanks for the help !
 

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