Question

Write a balanced half-reaction for the reduction of gaseous oxygen to aqueous hydrogen peroxide in basic aqueous solution. Be sure to add physical state symbols where appropriate.

Answer 1

Answer:

Balanced half-reaction: $O_{2}(g)+2H_{2}O(l)+2e^{-}\rightarrow H_{2}O_{2}(aq.)+2OH^{-}(aq.)$

Explanation:

Balanced half-reaction for the reduction of gaseous oxygen to aqueous hydrogen peroxide in basic solution should be written in the following step-by-step manner:

Half-reaction: $O_{2}(g)\rightarrow H_{2}O_{2}(aq.)$

Balance H and O in basic medium: $O_{2}(g)+2H_{2}O(l)\rightarrow H_{2}O_{2}(aq.)+2OH^{-}(aq.)$

Balance charge: $O_{2}(g)+2H_{2}O(l)+2e^{-}\rightarrow H_{2}O_{2}(aq.)+2OH^{-}(aq.)$

Balanced half-reaction: $O_{2}(g)+2H_{2}O(l)+2e^{-}\rightarrow H_{2}O_{2}(aq.)+2OH^{-}(aq.)$