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Write a balanced overall reaction from these unbalanced half-reactions. InβΆIn3+ Cd2+βΆCd
6. Chemical Quantities & Aqueous Reactions
Balancing Redox Reactions: Acidic Solutions
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Balance the following redox reaction if it occurs in acidic solution. What is the coefficient in front of SO3^2- in the balanced reaction? SO3^2- (aq) + MnO4^- (aq) β SO4^2- (aq) + Mn^2+ (aq)
A
2
B
3
C
1
D
4
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the oxidation and reduction half-reactions. In this case, SO3^2- is oxidized to SO4^2-, and MnO4^- is reduced to Mn^2+.
Write the oxidation half-reaction: \( \text{SO}_3^{2-} \rightarrow \text{SO}_4^{2-} \). Balance the sulfur atoms and add water molecules to balance the oxygen atoms: \( \text{SO}_3^{2-} + \text{H}_2\text{O} \rightarrow \text{SO}_4^{2-} + 2\text{H}^+ \).
Write the reduction half-reaction: \( \text{MnO}_4^- \rightarrow \text{Mn}^{2+} \). Balance the manganese atoms and add water molecules to balance the oxygen atoms: \( \text{MnO}_4^- + 8\text{H}^+ + 5\text{e}^- \rightarrow \text{Mn}^{2+} + 4\text{H}_2\text{O} \).
Balance the electrons between the oxidation and reduction half-reactions. Multiply the oxidation half-reaction by 5 and the reduction half-reaction by 2 to equalize the number of electrons transferred.
Combine the balanced half-reactions, ensuring that all species are balanced, including electrons, atoms, and charges. Verify the coefficients of each species, particularly the coefficient in front of \( \text{SO}_3^{2-} \).
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