Balancing Equations

Question

Balance the following oxidation-reduction reactions that occur in acidic solution using the half-life reaction method.

Br− (aq) + MnO4− (aq)→Br2 (l) + Mn+2 (aq)

Answer 1

Using the half-reaction method:

2Br^- ===> Br₂ + 2e- oxidation [x5]

MnO₄^- + 8H⁺ +5e- ===> Mn²⁺ + 4H₂O reduction [x2]

________________________________

10Br^- + 2MnO₄^- + 16H⁺ ===> 5Br₂ + 2Mn²⁺ + 8H₂O ... balanced for mass and charge