Question

4. Consider the following half-reactions: MnO4–(aq) + 8H+(aq) + 5e– → Mn+2(aq) + 4H2O(l) NO3–(aq) + 4H+(aq) + 3e– → NO(g) + 2H2O(l) Predict whether NO3– ions will oxidize Mn+2 to MnO4– under standard state conditions. (8 points)

Answer 1

Explanation:

The chemical reaction given in the question is as follows -

MnO₄⁻ (aq) + 8H⁺ (aq) + 5e⁻ → Mn²⁺ (aq) + 4H₂O (l)

NO₃⁻ (aq) + 4H⁺ (aq) + 3e⁻ → NO (g) + 2H₂O (l)

As we know , the value for reduction potential are -

Mn²⁺ = + 1.51  V

NO₃⁻  =  +0.96 V

From , the data given above , the value of the reduction potential of NO₃⁻ is less than the reduction potential of Mn²⁺ .

Hence ,

NO₃⁻  can not oxidize Mn²⁺ .