Chapter 21.8, Problem 1Q

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: the net balanced ionic equation for the oxidation of $N{H}_4{}^{+}$ by $O_2$ to produce $H_{2}O$ and $N{O}_2{}^{-}$ is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Steps followed to balance a redox (reduction-oxidation) reaction occurs in basic medium,

• Redox reacions can be sperated into two half-reactions, such as oxidation reaction and reduction reaction.
• Balancing of oxygen and hydrogen are carried out by adding water and ${\text{H}}^{\text{+}}$ ions in the half-reactions, and balance the number of elctrons then make the number of electrons in oxidation and reduction reactions equal by multiplying by integers.
• Add ${\text{OH}}^{-}$ ions as equals to ${\text{H}}^{\text{+}}$ ions in both sides, and make it as ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$.
• Club the both half-reactions.