Redox Equations

Name Class DateProblem Solving continuedThere are seven simple steps to balancing redox equations. You will find thesesteps in the General Plan for Balancing Redox Equations.General Plan for Balancing Redox Equations1Write the unbalanced formula equation if it is not given. Listformulas for any ionic substances as their individual ions, andwrite a total ionic equation.2Assign oxidation numbers to each element. Then rewrite theequation, leaving out any ions or molecules whose elements donot change oxidation state during the reaction.3Write the half-reaction for reduction. You must decide whichelement of the ions and molecules left after item 2 is reduced.Once you have written the half-reaction, you must balance it forcharge and mass.4Write the half-reaction for oxidation. You must decide whichelement of the ions and molecules left after item 2 is oxidized.Once you have written the half-reaction, you must balance it forcharge and mass.5Adjust the coefficients of the two half-reactions so that the samenumber of electrons are gained in reduction as are lost inoxidation.6Add the two half-reactions together. Cancel out anything commonto both sides of the new equation. Note that the electronsshould always cancel out of the total equation.7Combine ions to form the compounds shown in the originalformula equation. Check to ensure that all other ions and atomsbalance.Copyright © by Holt, Rinehart and Winston. All rights reserved.Holt ChemFile: Problem-Solving Workbook 304 Redox Equations