Balancing half equations - Redox (5.3)

Question 1

Give the 7 steps of balancing half equations

Answer 1

1. Balance metal atoms
2. Balance non-metal atoms
3. Balance oxygen atoms by adding water molecules to the other side
4. Now balance any extra hydrogens by adding H+ ions to the other side
5. Calculate the charge on each side
6. Reduce the more positive side by adding electrons
7. Insert state symbols

Question 2

What is a disproportionation reaction?

Answer 2

When an element is simultaneously oxidised and reduced

Question 3

What is an easy way of spotting a disproportionation reaction?

Answer 3

By seeing 3 different oxidation states of one element in a reaction