Question

1. When the following oxidation-reduction reaction in acidic solution is balanced, what is the

lowest whole-number coefficient for Rb*(aq)?
Rb(s) + Sr?+(aq) → Rb+ (aq) + Sr(s)

Answer 1

2Rb(s) + Sr^+(aq) → 2Rb^+ (aq) + Sr(s)

Step-by-step explanation:

Rubidium has a more negative reduction potential (-2.98 V) compared to strontium (-2.89 V).

Hence, in a redox reaction involving rubidium and strontium, rubidium will be oxidized while strontium is reduced.

The balanced redox reaction equation is obtained from;

Oxidation half equation;

2Rb(s) ---->2Rb^+(aq) + 2e

Reduction half equation;

Sr^2+(aq) + 2e ----> Sr(s)

Overall reaction equation;

2Rb(s) + Sr^+(aq) → 2Rb^+ (aq) + Sr(s)