Balance the half-reaction below for basic solution:
NH4+(aq) → N2H4(aq)
Which one of the following statements is correct? You should use the smallest possible integer coefficients in the balanced equation.
[Note that H2O(l) and OH–(aq) may have to be added where necessary to balance the equation.]
2OH– appears on the left; this is an oxidation. |
4OH– appears on the left; this is an oxidation. |
2OH– appears on the right; this is a reduction. |
4OH– appears on the left; this is a reduction. |
4OH– appears on the right; this is an reduction. |
NH4+ —> N2H4
Balance N:
2NH4+ —> N2H4
oxidation state of N changes from -3 to -2
This is oxidation since oxidation state is increasing.
Balance electron:
2NH4+ —> N2H4 + 2e-
Balance H:
2NH4+ —> N2H4 + 2e- + 4 H+
Replace H+ with OH- as this is basic
2NH4+ + 4 OH- —> N2H4 + 2e- + 4 H+ + 4 OH-
Replace H+ + OH- with H2O
2NH4+ + 4 OH- —> N2H4 + 2e- + 4 H2O
4OH– appears on the left; this is an oxidation.
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