I need some help in constructing component half equations from
overall equations regarding redox reactions
Say we have Iodate(V)Ion, IO3 -
the overall equation being: IO3- + 5I- +
6H+ -> 3I2 + 3H2O
How can I derive the reduction and oxidation equations from
here? Do give me a step-by-step solution... because I'm clueless as
to where to start. Thanks all!
Based on OS (oxidation state aka oxidation number), determine which
species on the LHS is oxidized, and which is reduced.
For this equation, iodate(V) ion is reduced to molecular iodine
(OS from +5 to 0), and the iodide ion is oxidized to molecular
iodine (OS from -1 to 0).
So there you have your half-equations. Balance them as per
standard rules of balancing redox equations.
Step 1
Balance the hetero-element atoms. (ie. atoms of any other
element other than O and H).
Step 2
Balance the oxygen atoms by adding water.
Step 3
Balance the hydrogen atoms by adding protons (ie. H+).
Step 4
Balance the charges by adding electrons (ie. e-).
Step 5
For alkaline conditions, neutralize away any H+ by adding enough
OH- ions on both sides.
