Question

Using the smallest possible integer coefficients to balance the redox equation cu no- 3 → cu 2 nO₂ (acidic solution), the coefficient for nO₂ is?

1) 1
2) 2
3) 3
4) 4

Answer 1

The coefficient for NO₂ in the balanced redox equation cu no- 3 → cu 2 nO₂ (acidic solution) is 2.

Step-by-step explanation:

Steps to balance the redox equation:

1. Write the skeletal equations for the oxidation and reduction half-reactions.
2. Balance each half-reaction for all elements except H and O.
3. Balance each half-reaction for O by adding H₂O.
4. Balance each half-reaction for H by adding H⁺.
5. If necessary, multiply one or both half-reactions so that the number of electrons consumed in one is equal to the number produced in the other.
6. Add the balanced half-reactions together, canceling out common terms.

In this case, the balanced equation for cu no- 3 → cu 2 nO₂ in an acidic solution is:

3Cu(s) + 8H⁺(aq) + 2NO₃⁻(aq) → 2Cu²⁺(aq) + N₂O₄(g) + 4H₂O(l)

So, the coefficient for NO₂ in the balanced equation is 2.