Example of a disproportion reaction in which the same species (chlorine in this case) has been both oxidised and reduced
Balancing disproportionation reactions
Balance the disproportionation reaction which takes place when chlorine is added to hot concentrated aqueous sodium hydroxide. The products are Cl- and ClO3- ions and water
Answer
Step 1: Write the unbalanced equation and identify the atoms that change in oxidation number:
Step 2: Deduce the oxidation number changes:
Step 3: Balance the oxidation number changes:
Step 4: Balance the charges
Step 5: Balance the atoms
Oxidation and reduction
In each of the following equations, state which reactant has been oxidised and which has been reduced.
Answer 1:
Answer 2:
Answer 3:
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Expertise: Chemistry
Philippa has worked as a GCSE and A level chemistry teacher and tutor for over thirteen years. She studied chemistry and sport science at Loughborough University graduating in 2007 having also completed her PGCE in science. Throughout her time as a teacher she was incharge of a boarding house for five years and coached many teams in a variety of sports. When not producing resources with the chemistry team, Philippa enjoys being active outside with her young family and is a very keen gardener.