Basic Redox Reactions

Balance the following oxidation - reduction reaction that occurs in a basic solution. Be sure to include (aq), (s), (l)... for each species in your final answer.

CN-(aq) + Fe(CN)6^3-(aq) OCN-(aq) + Fe(CN)6^4-(aq)

half-reactions:

CN-(aq) ---> OCN-(aq)
Fe(CN)6^3-(aq) ---> Fe(CN)6^4-(aq)

balance:

2OH-(aq) + CN-(aq) ---> OCN-(aq) + H2O(l) + 2e-
e- + Fe(CN)6^3-(aq) ---> Fe(CN)6^4-(aq)

equalize electrons:

2OH-(aq) + CN-(aq) ---> OCN-(aq) + H2O(l) + 2e-
2e- + 2Fe(CN)6^3-(aq) ---> 2Fe(CN)6^4-(aq)

Add 'em up. Nothing to cancel except the electrons. Note the (l) on the water. it's NOT an (aq).

More redox for you:

http://www.chemteam.info/Redox/Redox.htm…