The following reaction occurs in basic solution.What is the sum of the lowest whole-number coefficients in the balanced equation?
____ MnO₄^-(aq) + ____ NH₃(aq) → ____ NO₃^-(aq) + ____ MnO₂(s)

Question

The following reaction occurs in basic solution.What is the sum of the lowest whole-number coefficients in the balanced equation? ____ MnO₄^-(aq)+ ____ NH₃(aq)→ ____ NO₃^-(aq)+ ____ MnO₂(s)

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To balance the equation in basic solution, we first balance the atoms other than oxygen and hydrogen, then balance oxygen by adding water molecules, and hydrogen by adding hydroxide ions. Finally, we balance the charge by adding electrons. The balanced equation is $3 \text{MnO}_4^- + 2 \text{NH}_3 \rightarrow 3 \text{MnO}_2 + 2 \text{NO}_3^- + 4 \text{OH}^-$. The sum of the coefficients is $3 + 2 + 3 + 2 + 4 = 14$, but considering the lowest whole-number coefficients that balance the equation, the correct sum is $3 + 2 + 3 + 2 + 4 = 14$, which is not an option provided, indicating a mistake in the calculation or interpretation of the question as presented. Given the options, none directly match the expected outcome of the described process, suggesting a need for reevaluation of the provided choices or a misunderstanding in the explanation process.

The Following Reaction Occurs in Basic Solution