Question

Complete and balance the following half reaction in acid. MnO4 (aq) → Mn2+ (aq) How many electrons are needed and is the reaction an oxidation or reduction? 2 electrons, oxidation C 4 electrons, oxidation O 5 electrons, oxidation 0 7 electrons, oxidation O 2 electrons, reduction 4 electrons, reduction 5 electrons, reduction 0 7 electrons, reduction

Answer 1

The half-reaction for the reduction of MnO4- to Mn2+ is:

MnO4-(aq) + 5 e- + 8 H+(aq) → Mn2+(aq) + 4 H2O(l)

In this reaction, MnO4- gains electrons and is reduced to Mn2+. Therefore, the reaction is a reduction.

The balanced equation shows that 5 electrons are needed for this reduction reaction.