Chapter 21.8, Problem 2Q

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: the half reactions and net balanced equation for the reduction of $N{O}_3{}^{-}$ by $C{H}_{3}OH$ in basic medium 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.