Balancing Redox Equations?

[platinumcaps]

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When you have half reactions, how do you tell if a half reaction is acidic and or basic?

for example,
(MnO4)^-1 --> Mn^+2

thanks

 

[pmoney]

First you split into redox or oxidation half reactions. (Here there is no need)

1. Balance the main atom (ie. Mn)
2. Add H2Os to the side to balance the oxygens
3. Add H+ to balance the Hs
4. Add electrons to balance charges

In basic, you add OH- to the H+, creating H2O.