How do I balance redox equations in acidic reactions, without trial and error, using half equations?

Here is a summary on the steps to complete these question types. 

  1. Determin oxidation numbers 2. Figure out what is being oxidised and what is being reduced. 3. Write half equations. 4. Balance the atoms exclusing O and H. 5. To balance O add H2O, to balance H add H+. 6. Add E- to balance charges. 7. Multiply half equations so the number of electrons on each side =0. 8. Combine the half equations by adding together and cancelling out molecules that appear on both sides. 9. Final check to ensure all is balanced correctly.
IK
Answered by Imaany K. Chemistry tutor

1935 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Draw the mechanism for the reaction of an acid chloride with an alcohol to form an ester


Why is methylamine a stronger base than phenylamine?


What is the standard enthalpy change of formation and how does it differ from the standard enthalpy change of reaction?


What is the easiest way to calculate E cell values?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning