Question

Use the following steps to balance the redox reaction below:

Na + Cu2+ → Na+ + Cu

a. Write the oxidation and reduction half-reactions. Make sure each half-reaction is balanced for number of
atoms and charge. (3 points)

b. Multiply each half-reaction by the correct number, in order to balance charges for the two half-reactions. (1
point)

c. Add the equations and simplify to get a balanced equation (1 point)

Answer 1

(a)

Oxidation

Na -> Na+ + e

Reduction

Cu2+ + 2e -> Cu

(b) Just multiply oxidation half-reaction by 2 and reduction half-reaction by 1.

2Na -> 2Na+ + 2e

Cu2+ + 2e -> Cu

(c) 2Na + Cu2+ -> 2Na+ + Cu (2e cancels each other)

Please be reminded, this answer may not be correct.