Chemical Forums

Chemistry Forums for Students => Undergraduate General Chemistry Forum => Topic started by: sheila on October 23, 2004, 09:06:00 PM

Title: balancing half reactions
Post by: sheila on October 23, 2004, 09:06:00 PM

I need help with this, please.  

Cl2 + 4H2O reacts to form 2ClO2- + 8H+

I know this is only a half reaction.  I realize the Cl2 lost 3 electrons by oxidation to the 2ClO2- so I know the 3 electrons must show up on the product side.  I am obviously missing something because I can't get the charge to equal on both sides

Title: Re:balancing half reactions
Post by: Demotivator on October 24, 2004, 11:43:03 AM

Each Cl lost 3 electrons, but there are two Cl in Cl2 for a total of 6 electrons.

Title: Re:balancing half reactions
Post by: kevins on October 24, 2004, 12:25:11 PM

sheila ,

I think your equation got something wrong?

As I know, Cl react with water to form Cl- and ClO- right?