MnSO4(aq) is converted to MnO2(s) in a basic medium as oxygen gas is converted t
ID: 731920 • Letter: M
Question
MnSO4(aq) is converted to MnO2(s) in a basic medium as oxygen gas is converted to hydroxide ion. In this case is the sulfate ion a spectator ion? (NaOH is also present. Is sodium ion also a spectator ion?) What are the half reactions for the oxidation and reduction reactions? Also, what is the overall reaction?Explanation / Answer
bu puting your values in formula You need not to be concerned about the exact mechanism of the reaction. First, try writing out the balanced equation. 4Li + O2 --->2Li2O So which element was oxidized? Li does not have a charge while LiO is an ionic compound in which electrons are "shared" according to electronegativity. In this case oxygen is much more electronegative and it essentially obtains two electrons from Li through bonding. Now write out the half reactions. Oxygen is reduced. O2 + 4e- ---> 2O (with a 2- charge) Li is oxidized. 4Li--->4e- + 4Li (with a 1+ charge) *So overall O2 + 4Li + 4e- ---> 2O (2-) + 4Li (1+) + 4e- A third reaction is also important. The products of the latter two steps combine to form 2Li2O. 2O (2-) + 4Li (1+) ---> 2Li2O Combine this with the above equation and you will return to the original balanced equation.