Chemistry half equations

When an aqueous solution of chlorate(I) ions (CIO-) is reduced, chloride ions and hydroxide ions are formed. Write a half equation to represent this change.
Please help!
I have ClO- --> Cl- + OH- but I dont understand how to balance it

(edited 2 months ago)

Reply 1

pingpong14

Original post by iishadowknightii

Everything is balanced apart from H. So you have to add H+ ions to the other side. Then balance charges using e-

Reply 2

iishadowknightii

I found an answer but i don't understand how it came about.
ClO- + H2O + 2e- ---> Cl- + 2OH-

Reply 3

charco

Study Forum Helper

Original post by iishadowknightii

I found an answer but i don't understand how it came about.
ClO- + H2O + 2e- ---> Cl- + 2OH-

Balancing half-equations in acidic medium you are only allowed to use hydrogen ions, water and electrons.
In basic medium you are only allowed to use water, hydroxide ions and electrons.

"When an aqueous solution of chlorate(I) ions (CIO-) is reduced, chloride ions and hydroxide ions are formed"

ClO^- ==> Cl^- + OH^-

You need water on the left hand side (LHS) for hydrogen. To compensate for the extra oxygen on RHS double the OH-

ClO^- + H₂O ==> Cl^- + 2OH^-

Now balance the charge by adding electrons:

ClO^- + H₂O + 2e ==> Cl^- + 2OH^-