Start with the skeleton half-reaction NO₂^-→NO₃^-. When balanced in basic solution, what other species appear on the right side of the equation, in addition to NO₃^-?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In order to balance the half-reaction in basic solution, we need to add OH- ions to the left side of the equation. This reacts with the H+ ions to form water. However, we also need to balance the charge by adding electrons. The electrons will appear on the left side of the equation, since they are being lost by the reactant. Therefore, the additional species that appear on the right side of the equation are the product of the reduction of HSO4- to SO42- and 2 e- (HSO4- + 2 e- -> SO42- + H2O) and the OH- ions that were added to balance the charges. The only choice that includes these species is C.

Start with the Skeleton Half-Reaction NO2 - →NO3 -

Start with the Skeleton Half-Reaction NO₂^-→NO₃^-