Acidic solution of permanganate oxidizing nitrous acid to nitrate ions. Oxidation rxn, reduction rxn, and net ionic rxn with states of matter.

Question

An acidic solution of permanganate (MnO₄^–) ions can oxidize nitrous acid to nitrate ions. The products include dissolved Mn²⁺ ions. Write the chemical equations describing the oxidation of nitrous acid and the reduction of permanganate, and combine the two half-reactions to write a net ionic equation describing the overall redox reaction. Use the lowest whole-number coefficients possible and include states of matter.

Answer 1

Oxidation of nitrous acid

5NO₂^- + 5H₂O ==> N5O₃^- + 10H⁺ + 10e-

Reduction of MnO₄^-

2MnO₄^- + 16H⁺ + 10e- ==> 2Mn²⁺ + 8H₂O

Combined redox (net ionic)

2MnO₄^- + 5NO₂^- + 6H⁺ ==> 2Mn²⁺ + 3H₂O (all states of matter are aqueous except H₂O which is liquid)