Class–XI–CBSE-Chemistry Redox Reactions

CBSE NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Chemistry Chapter 8

Back of Chapter Questions

1. Assign O.N. to the underlined elements in each of the following species:

(a) NaH2 PO4
(b) NaHSO4
(c) H4 P2 O7
(d) K 2 MnO4
(e) CaO2
(f) NaBH4
(g) H2 S2 O7

(h) KAl(SO4 )2 . 12 H2 O

Solution:
(a) NaH2 PO4
Let the O.N. of P = x.
We know that,
The O.N. of Na = +1
The O.N. of H = +1
The O.N. of O = −2
Then, we have
1(+1) + 2(+1) + 1(x) + 4(−2) = 0
1+2+x−8=0
⇒ x = +5
Hence, the O.N. of P is +5
(b) NaHSO4
Let the O.N. of 𝑆 = x.

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We know that,
The O.N. of Na = +1
The O.N. of H = +1
The O.N. of O = −2
1(+1) + 1(+1) + 1(x) + 4(−2) = 0
⇒1+1+x−8= 0
⇒ x = +6
Hence, the O.N. of S is +6.
(c) H4 P2 O7
Let the O.N. of P = x.
We know that,
The O.N. of H = +1
The O.N. of O = −2
Then, we have
4(+1) + 2(x) + 7(−2) = 0
⇒ 4 + 2x − 14 = 0
⇒ 2x = +10
⇒ x = +5
Hence, the O.N. of P is +5
(d) K 2 MnO4
Let the O.N. of 𝑀𝑛 = x.
We know that,
The O.N. of K = +1
The O.N. of O = −2
Then, we have
2(+1) + x + 4(−2) = 0
⇒ x = +6
Hence, the O.N. of Mn is +6

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(e) CaO2
Let the O.N. of 𝑂 = x.
We know that,
The O.N. of Ca = +2
Then, we have
(+2) + 2(x) + 0
⇒ 2 + 2x = 0
⇒ x = −1
Hence, the O.N. of O is −1
(f) NaBH4
Let the O.N. of 𝐵 = x.
We know that,
The O.N. of Na = +1
The O.N. of H = +1
Then, we have
1(+1) + 1(x) + 4(−1) = 0
⇒1+x−4 =0
⇒ x = −3
Hence, the O.N. of B is +3
(g) H2 S2 O7
Let the O.N. of S = x.
We know that,
The O.N. of H = +1
The O.N. of O = −2
Then, we have
2(+1) + 2(x) + 7(−2) = 0
⇒ 2 + 2x − 14 = 0
⇒ 2x = 12

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Hence, the O.N. of S is +6

(h) KAl(SO4 )2 . 12 H2 O

Let the O.N. of 𝑆 = x.

We know that,
The O.N. of K= +1
The O.N. of Al = +3
The O.N. of O = −2
The O.N. of H = +1
Then, we have
1(+1) + 1(+3) + 2x + 8(−2) + 24(+1) + 12(−2) = 0
⇒ 1 + 3 + 2x − 16 + 24 − 24 = 0
⇒ x = +6
Hence, the O.N. of S is +6
Or
We can ignore the water molecule as it is a neutral molecule. Then, the sum
of the O.N.s of all atoms of the water molecule may be taken as zero.
Therefore, after ignoring the water molecule, we have
Let the O.N. of 𝑆 = x.
We know that,
The O.N. of K= +1
The O.N. of O = −2
The O.N. of 𝐴𝑙 = +3
The O.N. of H2 O = 0
Then, we have
1(+1) + 1(+3) + 2x + 8(−2) = 0
⇒ 1 + 3 + 2x − 16 = 0
⇒ x = +6
Hence, the O.N. of S is +6

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2. What are the O.N. of the underlined elements in each of the following and how do
you rationalise your results?
(a) KI3
(b) H2 S4 O6
(c) Fe3 O4
(d) CH3 CH2 OH
(e) CH3 COOH

Solution:
(a) KI3
Let the O.N. of 𝑆 = x.
We know that,
the O.N. (O. N. ) of K = +1.
Hence, the average O.N. of I

1(+1) + 3(x) = 0
⇒ 1 + 3x = 0
1
⇒ x = − 3.

However, O. N. cannot be fractional. Therefore, we will have to consider the

structure of 𝐾𝐼3 to find the oxidation states.
In a KI3 , molecule, an atom of iodine forms a coordinate covalent bond with
an iodine molecule.
+1 0 0 −1 −
K + [I −I← I]

Hence, in a KI3 molecule, the O. N. of the two I atoms forming the I2

molecule is 0, whereas the O. N. of the I atom forming the coordinate bond
is – 1.
(b) H2 S4 O6
Let the O.N. of 𝑆 = x.
We know that,

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The O.N. of H= +1
The O.N. of O = −2
Now, 2(+1) + 4(x) + 6(−2) = 0
⇒ 2 + 4x − 12 = 0
⇒ 4x = 10
⇒ x = +2.5
However, O. N. cannot be fractional. Hence, S must be present in different
oxidation states in the molecule.

The O. N. of two of the four S atoms is +5 and the O. N. of the other two S
atoms is 0.
(c) Fe3 O4
Let the O.N. of 𝐹𝑒 = x.
We know that,
The O.N. of O = −2
Now, 3(x) + 4(−2) = 0
⇒ 3x − 8 = 0
⇒ 3x = 8
⇒ x = +2.5
the O. N. of Fe is found to be +2.5. However, O. N. cannot be fractional.
Fe3 O4 𝑖𝑠 mixed oxide is has FeO and Fe2 O3 ,
the oxidation state of Fe in FeO:
x+1(-2)=0
x=2
the oxidation state of Fe in Fe2 O3 :
2x+3(-2)=0
x=3

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the O. N. of Fe is found to be 2 and 3 in FeO and Fe2 O3 respectively.

(d) CH3 CH2 OH
Let the O.N. of 𝐶= x.
We know that,
The O.N. of H= +1
The O.N. of O = −2
Now,
2(x) + 6(+1) + 1(−2) = 0
⇒ 2x + 6 − 2 = 0
⇒ x = −2
Hence, the O. N. of C is −2.
(e) CH3 COOH
Let the O.N. of 𝐶 = x.
We know that,
The O.N. of H= +1
The O.N. of O = −2
Now, 2(x) + 4(1) + 2(−2) = 0
⇒ 2x + 4 − 4 = 0
⇒x=0
However, 0 is average O. N. of C. The two carbon atoms present in this
molecule are present in different environments. Hence, they cannot have the
same O.N..
Thus, C exhibits the oxidation states of +2 and – 2 in CH3 COOH.

3. Justify that the following reactions are redox reactions:

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(a) CuO(s) + H2 (g) + Cu(s) + H2 O(g)

(b) Fe2 O3 (s) + 3CO(g) → 2Fe(s) + 3CO2 (g)
(c) 4BCl3 (g) + 3LiAlH4 (s) → 2B2 H6 (g) + 3LiCl(s) + 3AlCl3 (s)
(d) 2K(s) + F2 (g) → 2K + F − (s)
(e) 4 NH3 + 5O2 (g) → 4NO(g) + 6H2 O(g)

Solution:
(a) CuO(s) + H2 (g) + Cu(s) + H2 O(g)
Let us write the O.N. of each element involved in the given reaction as:
+2 −2 0 0 +1 −2
Cu O (s) + H2 (g) → Cu(s) + H2 O (g)
Here,
2𝑒 − + 𝐶𝑢+2 → 𝐶𝑢
the O.N. of Cu decreases from +2 in CuO to 0 in Cu, i.e., CuO is reduced to
Cu. Or in the above reaction addition of electron is taking place so it is a
reduction.
0 0 +1 −2
H2 (g) → Cu(s) + H2 O
Also, the O.N. of H increases from 𝑧𝑒𝑟𝑜 in H2 to +1 in H2 O i.e., H2 is
oxidized to H2 O.
In the above reaction oxidation and reduction, both is taking place
simultaneously Hence, this reaction is a redox reaction.
(b) Fe2 O3 (s) + 3CO(g) → 2Fe(s) + 3CO2 (g)
Let us write the O.N. of each element in the given reaction as:
+3 −2 +2−2 +4−2
F e2 O 3 (s) + 3 C O (g) → 2Fe(s) + 3 C O 2 (g)

𝐹𝑒 +3 + 3𝑒 − → 𝐹𝑒
Here, the O.N. of Fe decreases from +3 in Fe2 O3 to 𝑧𝑒𝑟𝑜 in Fe or addition
of electron involved so Fe2 O3 is reduced to Fe.
+2−2 +4−2
C O (g) → C O 2 (g)the O.N. of C increases from +2 in CO to +4 in CO2
i.e., CO is oxidized to CO2 .

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In the above reaction oxidation and reduction, both is taking place

simultaneously Hence, this reaction is a redox reaction.
(c) 4BCl3 (g) + 3LiAlH4 (s) → 2B2 H6 (g) + 3LiCl(s) + 3AlCl3 (s)
The O.N. of each element in the given reaction can be represented as:
+3−1 +1 +3 -1 −3 +1 +1 −1 +3 −1
4 B Cl3 (g) + 3LiAlH4 (s) → 2 B 2 H 6 (g) + 3LiCl(s) + 3AlCl3 (s)
In this reaction, the O.N. of B decreases from +3 in BCl3 to – 3 in B2 H6.
i.e., BCl3 is reduced toB2 H6 . Also, the O.N. of H increases from – 1 in
LiAlH4 to +1 in B2 H6 i.e., LiAlH4 is oxidized to B2 H6 . In the above reaction
oxidation and reduction, both is taking place simultaneously Hence, this
reaction is a redox reaction.
(d) 2K(s) + F2 (g) → 2K + F − (s)
The O.N. of each element in the given reaction can be represented as:
0 0 −1
2K(s) + F2 (g) → 2K + F − (s)
In this reaction, the O.N. of 𝐾 increases from 𝑧𝑒𝑟𝑜 in 𝐾 to +1 in KF. i.e.,
𝐾 is oxidised to KF. Also, the O.N. of 𝐹2 decreases from 0 in 𝐹2 𝑎𝑛𝑑 −
1 𝑖𝑛 𝐾𝐹 i.e.redution is occure .
In the above reaction oxidation and reduction, both is taking place
simultaneously Hence, this reaction is a redox reaction.
(e) 4 NH3 + 5O2 (g) → 4NO(g) + 6H2 O(g)
The O.N. of each element in the given reaction can be represented as:
4
−3+1 0 +2−2 +1 −2
4 N H 3 + 5O2 (g) → 4 N O (g) + 6 H 2 O (g)
Here, the O.N. of N increases from – 3 in NH3 to +2 in NO. so oxidation is
taking place there
the O.N. of O2 decreases from 0 in O2 to – 2 in NO and H2 O i.e.,
so the gain of electron is occur here so O2 is reduced.
In the above reaction oxidation and reduction, both is taking place
simultaneously. Hence, this reaction is a redox reaction.

4. Fluorine reacts with ice and results in the change:

H2 O(s) + F2 (g) → HF(g) + HOF(g)

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Justify that this reaction is a redox reaction.

Solution:
Let us write the O.N. of each atom involved in the given reaction above its symbol
as:
+1 −2 0 +1−1 +1−2+1
H 2 O + F2 → H F + H O F
Here, we have observed that the O.N. of F increases from 0 in F2 to +1 in HOF.
Also, the O.N. of fluorine decreases from 0 in F2 to – 1 in HF. Thus, in the above
reaction, F is both oxidized and reduced. Hence, the given reaction is a redox
reaction.

5. Calculate the O.N. of sulphur, chromium and nitrogen in H2 SO5 , Cr2 O2− −
7 and NO3 .
Suggest structure of these compounds. Count for the fallacy.

Solution:
(i) average O.N. of sulphure in H2 SO5
Let the O.N. of 𝑆 = x.
We know that,
The O.N. of O = −2
The O.N. of H = +1
Now,
2(+1) + 1(x) + 5(− 2) = 0
⇒ 2 + x − 10 = 0
⇒ x = +8
However, the O. N. of S cannot be +8. S has six valence electrons.
Therefore, the O. N. of S cannot be more than +6.
The structure of H2 SO5 is shown as follows:

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Now, 2(+1) + 1(x) + 3(−2) + 2(−1) = 0

⇒ 2+x−6−2= 0
⇒ x = +6
Therefore, the O. N. of S is +6.
(ii) Cr2 O2−
7

Let the O.N. of 𝐶𝑟 = x.

We know that,
The O.N. of O = −2
2(x) + 7(−2) = −2
⇒ 2x − 14 = −2
⇒ x = +6
Here, there is no fallacy about the O. N. of Cr in Cr2 O2−
7

The structure of Cr2 O2−

7 is shown as follows:

Here, each of the two Cr atoms exhibits the O. N. of +6.

(iii) NO−
3.

Let the O.N. of 𝑁 = x.

We know that,
The O.N. of O = −2
1(x) + 3(−2) = −1
⇒ x − 6 = −1

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⇒ x = +5
Here, there is no fallacy about the O.N. of N in NO−
3

The structure of NO−

3 is shown as follows:

The N atom exhibits the O. N. of +5.

6. Write formulas for the following compounds:

(a) Mercury(II) chloride
(b) Nickel(II) sulphate
(c) Tin(IV) oxide
(d) Thallium(I) sulphate
(e) Iron(III) sulphate
(f) Chromium(III) oxide

Solution:
(a) Mercury(II) chloride: Mercury(II)=𝐻𝑔+2 and chloride = 𝐶𝑙 − so the
formula of a compound is HgCl2
(b) Nickel(II) sulphate: nickel(II)=N𝑖 +2 and sulphate =𝑆𝑂4−2 so the
formula of a compound is NiSO4
(c) Tin(IV) oxide: 𝑇𝑖𝑛(𝐼𝑉) = 𝑆𝑛+4 + and oxide =𝑂−2 so the formula
of a compound is 𝑆𝑛𝑂2
(d) Thallium(I) sulphate:
Thallium(I) = Tl+1
sulphate = 𝑆𝑂4−2
the formula of a compound is TI2 SO4

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(e) Iron(III) sulphate: Iron(III) = 𝐹𝑒 +3 + and sulphate =

−2
𝑆𝑂4 so the formula of a compound is Fe2 (SO4 )3
(f) Chromium(III) oxide: Chromium(III) = 𝐶𝑟 +3 + and oxide
−2
=𝑂 so the formula of a compound is Cr2 O3

7. Suggest a list of the substances where carbon can exhibit oxidation states from −4
to +4 and nitrogen from −3 to +5.

Solution:
The substances where carbon can exhibit oxidation states from – 4 to +4 are listed
in the following table.
Substance O.N. of carbon

C𝐹2 C𝐹2 , C𝐶𝑙2 C𝐶𝑙2.CO𝐹2 , CO𝐶𝑙2, CO𝐵𝑟2 0

FC ≡ CF, ClC ≡ CCl +1

HC ≡ CH −1
CHCl3 , CH𝐹3 , CO,(𝐶𝐹2 𝐶𝐶𝑙2 ) carbeen +2
CH3 F, CH3 Cl −2
Cl3 C − CCl3 +3
H3 C − CH3 −3
C𝐹4 , CCl4 , CO2 +4
CH4 −4
The substances where nitrogen can exhibit oxidation states from – 3 to +5 are listed
in the following table.
Substance O.N. of carbon

N2 0
N2 O, 𝐻2 𝑁2 𝑂2 +1
N2 H2 −1
NO +2
N2 H4 −2
N2 O3, 𝐻𝑁𝑂2 ,𝑁𝐶𝑙3 +3

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NH3 −3
NO2 , +4
N2 𝑂4
N2 O5, 𝐻𝑁𝑂3 +5

8. While sulphur dioxide and hydrogen peroxide, ozone can act as oxidising as well
as reducing agents in their reactions, nitric acid act only as oxidants. Why?

Solution:
In sulphur dioxide (SO2 ), the O.N. (O. N. ) of S is +4 and the range of the O. N. that
S can have is from +6 to – 2.Therefore, SO2 can act as an oxidising as well as a
reducing agent.
SO2 → SO3 (oxidation)
SO2 → S −2 (reduction)
In hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ) the O. N. of O is – 1 and the range of the O. N. that O
can have is from 0 to – 2. O can sometimes also attain the O.N.s +1 and +2. Hence,
H2 O2 can act as an oxidising as well as a reducing agent.
H2 O2 → O2 (oxidation)
H2 O2 → H2 O (reduction)
In ozone , the O. N. of Oxygen is zero and the range of the O. N. that O can have is
from +2 to – 2.
Therefore, the O. N. of O can only decrease in this case. Hence, O3 acts as an
oxidant.
O3 → O2 + [𝑂]
Ozone reduces peroxides to oxides and in turn gets reduced to oxygen so used as reductant
.
In nitric acid (HNO3 ), the O. N. of N is +5 and the range of the O. N. that N can
have is from +5 to – 3. Therefore, the O. N. of N can only decrease in this case.
Hence, HNO3 acts only as an oxidant.

9. Consider the reactions:

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(a) 6CO2 (g) + 6H2 O(l) → C6 H12 O6 (aq) + 6O2 (g)

(b) O3 (g) + H2 O2 (l) → H2 O(l) + 2O2 (g)
Why it is more appropriate to write these reactions as :
(a) 6CO2 (g) + 12H2 O(l) → C6 H12 O6 (aq) + 6H2 O(l) + 6O2 (g)
(b) O3 (g) + H2 O2 (l) → H2 O(l) + O2 (g) + O2 (g)
Also, suggest a technique to investigate the path of the above (A) and (B)
redox reactions.

Solution:
(a) The process of photosynthesis involves two steps.
Reaction 1
H2 O decomposes to give H2 and O2 .
2H2 O(l) ⟶ 2H2 (g) + O2 (g)
Reaction 2:
The H2 produced in step 1 reduces CO2 , thereby producing glucose
(C6 H12 O6 ) and H2 O
6CO2 (g) + 12H2 (g) ⟶ C6 H12 O6 (s) + 6H2 O(l)
As reaction 1× 𝑏𝑦 6 and add with reaction 2 the net reaction of the process
is given as:
2H2 O(l) ⟶ 2H2 (g) + O2 (g) ] × 6
6CO2 (g) + 12H2 (g) ⟶ C6 H12 O6 (s) + 6H2 O(l)
net reaction6CO2 (g) + 12H2 O(l) → C6 H12 O6 (aq) + 6H2 O(l) + 6O2 (g)
It is more appropriate to write the reaction as given above because water
molecules are also
produced in the process of photosynthesis.
The path of this reaction can be investigated by using radioactive H2 O18 in
place of H2 O.
(b) O2 is produced from each of the two reactants O3 and H2 O2 . For this reason,
O2 is written twice.
The given reaction involves two steps. First, O3 decomposes to form O2 and O.
O3 (g) → O(g) + 2O2 (g)

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Second ,H2 O2 𝑑𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑒𝑠 𝑡𝑜 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑚 O2 and H2 O

H2 O2 (l) + O(g) → H2 O(l) + O2 (g)
Why it is more appropriate to write these reactions as :
In the second step, H2 O2 reacts with the O produced in the first step, thereby
producing H2 O and O2 .by adding both above 1and 2 reactions.
O3 (g) → O(g) + 2O2 (g)
H2 O2 (l) + O(g) → H2 O(l) + O2 (g)
Net reactionH2 O2 (l) + O3 (g) → H2 O(l) + O2 (g) + O2 (g)
The path of this reaction can be investigated by using H2 O18 18
2 or O3 .

10. The compound AgF2 is an unstable compound. However, if formed, the compound
acts as a very strong oxidising agent. Why?

Solution:
The oxidation state of Ag in AgF2 is +2. But, +2 is an unstable oxidation state of
Ag. +1 is more stable oxidation state of Ag
Therefore, whenever AgF2 is formed, silver readily accepts an electron to form
Ag + .
Ag +2 + e− → Ag +
This helps to bring the oxidation state of Ag down from +2 to a more stable state
of +1. Ag +2 reduced in Ag + so AgF2 acts as a very strong oxidizing agent.

11. Whenever a reaction between an oxidising agent and a reducing agent is carried
out, a compound of lower oxidation state is formed if the reducing agent is in excess
and a compound of higher oxidation state is formed if the oxidising agent is in
excess. Justify this statement giving three illustrations.

Solution:
Whenever a reaction between an oxidising agent and a reducing agent is carried
out, a compound of lower oxidation state is formed if the reducing agent is in excess

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and a compound of higher oxidation state is formed if the oxidising agent is in

excess. This can be illustrated as follows:
(i) P4 and F2 are reducing and oxidising agents respectively.
If an excess of P4 is treated with F2 , then PF3 will be produced, where the
O.N. of P is +3 in PF3
P4 (excess) + F2 ⟶ PF3
𝑂. 𝑁𝑜. 𝑜𝑓 𝑃 0 0 +3
However, if P4 is treated with an excess of F2 , then PF5 will be produced,
wherein the O. N. of P is +5 in PF5 .
P4 (excess) + F2 ⟶ PF5
𝑂. 𝑁𝑜. 𝑜𝑓 𝑃 0 0 +5

(ii) K acts as a reducing agent, whereas O2 is an oxidising agent. If an excess of

K reacts with O2 , then K 2 O will be formed, wherein the O. N. of O is
– 2 in K 2 O.
4K(excess) + O2 ⟶ 2K 2 O
𝑂. 𝑁𝑜 𝑜𝑓 𝑂 0 0 -2

However, if K reacts with an excess of O2 , then K 2 O2 will be formed,

wherein the O. N. of O is – 1 in K 2 O2 .
2K + O2 (excess) ⟶ K 2 O2
𝑂. 𝑁𝑜. 𝑜𝑓 𝑂 0 0 -1

(iii) C is a reducing agent, while O2 acts as an oxidising agent.

If an excess of C is burnt in the presence of limiting amount of O2 , then CO
will be produced, where the O. N. of Cabon is +2.
1
C(excess) + O2 ⟶ CO
2
𝑂. 𝑁𝑜. 𝑜𝑓 𝐶 0 0 +2

On the other hand, if C is burnt in an excess of O2 , then CO2 will be

produced, wherein the O. N. of C is +4.

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C + O2 (excess) ⟶ CO2
𝑂. 𝑁𝑜. 𝑜 𝑓𝐶 0 0 +4

12. How do you count for the following observations ?

(a) Though alkaline potassium permanganate and acidic potassium
permanganate both are used as oxidants, yet in the manufacture of benzoic
acid from toluene we use alcoholic potassium permanganate as an oxidant,
Why? Write a balanced redox equation for the reaction.
(b) When concentrated sulphuric acid is added to an inorganic mixture
containing chloride, we get colourless pungent smelling gas HCl, but if the
mixture contains bromide then we get red vapour of bromine. Why? \

Solution:
(a) In the manufacture of benzoic acid from toluene, alcoholic potassium
permanganate is used as an oxidant because of the following reasons.
(i) In a neutral medium, OH − ions are produced in the reaction itself.
As a result, the cost of adding an acid or a base can be reduced.
−
𝑀𝑛𝑂4− + 2𝐻2 𝑂 + 3𝑒 − → 𝑀𝑛𝑂2 + 4 𝑂𝐻
(ii) KMnO4 and alcohol both are polar and homogeneous to each other
. Toluene and alcohol are also homogeneous to each other because
both are organic compounds. Reactions can proceed at a faster rate
in a homogeneous medium than in a heterogeneous medium.
Hence, in alcohol, KMnO4 and toluene can react at a faster rate.
The balanced redox equation for the reaction in a neutral medium is
give as below:

(b) When conc.H2 SO4 is added to an inorganic mixture containing

bromide, initially HBr is produced. HBr, being a strong reducing
agent reduces H2 SO4 to SO2 with the evolution of red vapour of
bromine.

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2NaBr + 2H2 SO4 ⟶ 2NaHSO4 + 2HBr

2HBr + H2 SO4 ⟶ Br2 + SO2 + 2H2 O
But, when conc. H2 SO4 is added to an inorganic mixture containing
chloride, a pungent smelling gas (HCl) is evolved. HCl, being a weak
reducing agent, cannot reduce H2 SO4 to SO2 .
2NaCl + 2H2 SO4 ⟶ 2NaHSO4 + 2HCl

13. Identify the substance oxidised reduced, oxidising agent and reducing agent for
each of the following reactions:
(a) 2AgBr(s) + C6 H6 O2 (aq) → 2Ag(s) + 2HBr(aq) + C6 H4 O2 (aq)
(b) HCHO(l) + 2[Ag(NH3 )2 ]+ (aq) + 3OH − (aq) → 2Ag(s) + HCOO − (aq) +
4NH3 (aq) + 2H2 O(l)
(c) HCHO(l) + 2Cu2+ (aq) + 5 OH − (aq) → Cu2 O(s) + HCOO− (aq) +
3H2 O(l)
(d) N2 H4 (l) + 2H2 O2 (l) → N2 (g) + 4H2 O(l)
(e) Pb(s) + PbO2 (s) + 2H2 SO4 (aq) → 2PbSO4 (s) + 2H2 O(l)

Solution:
(a) 2AgBr(s) + C6 H6 O2 (aq) → 2Ag(s) + 2HBr(aq) + C6 H4 O2 (aq)
Reduction : 𝑒 − + Ag + → Ag(s)
Oxidation : C6 H6 O2 (aq) → C6 H4 O2 (aq) + 2𝐻 + + 2𝑒 −
O.No of C 1/3 0
Oxidised substance → C6 H6 O2
Reduced substance → AgBr
Oxidising agent → AgBr
Reducing agent → C6 H6 O2
(b) HCHO(l) + 2[Ag (NH3 )2 ]+ (aq) + 3OH − (aq) → 2Ag(s) +
HCOO − (aq) + 4NH3 (aq) + 2H2 O(l)
Oxidation : H2 O(l) + HCHO(l) → HCOO − (aq)+3𝐻 + + 2𝑒 −

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Reduction : [Ag (NH3 )2 ]+ (aq) + 𝑒 − → Ag(s) + 2NH3 (aq) + 2H2 O(l)

Oxidised substance → HCHO
Reduced substance → [Ag (NH3 )2 ]+
Oxidising agent → [Ag (NH3 )2 ]+
Reducing agent → HCHO
(c) HCHO(l) + 2Cu2+ (aq) + 5 OH − (aq) → Cu2 O(s) +
HCOO− (aq) + 3H2 O(l)
Reduction : 𝑒 − + Cu2+ (aq) → Cu1+ (aq)
1. Oxidation: HCHO(l) → HCOO− (aq)
O.no. of carbon 0 +2
Oxidised substance → HCHO
Reduced substance → Cu2+
Oxidising agent → Cu2+
Reducing agent → HCHO
(d) N2 H4 (l) + 2H2 O2 (l) → N2 (g) + 4H2 O(l)
Oxidation : N2 H4 (l) → N2 (g)
Oxidation No.of nitrogen -2 0
Reduction : H2 O2 (l) → H2 O(l)
O. No.of oxygen -1 -2
Oxidised substance → N2 H4
Reduced substance → H2 O2
Oxidising agent → H2 O2
Reducing agent → N2 H4
(e) Pb(s) + PbO2 (s) + 2H2 SO4 (aq) → 2PbSO4 (s) + 2H2 O(l)
Oxidation : Pb(s) → Pb+2 (s) + 2e−
Reduction : 2e− + Pb+4 (s) → Pb+2 (s)
Oxidised substance → Pb
Reduced substance → PbO2
Oxidising agent → PbO2
Reducing agent → Pb

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14. Consider the reactions :

2S2 O2− 2− −
3 (aq) + I2 (s) → S4 O6 (aq) + 2I (aq)

S2 O2− 2− − +
3 (aq) + 2Br2 (l) + 5 H2 O(l) → 2SO4 (aq) + 4Br (aq) + 10H (aq)

Why does the same reductant, thiosulphate react differently with iodine and
bromine ?

Solution:
2S2 O2− 2− −
3 (aq) + I2 (s) → S4 O6 (aq) + 2I (aq)

Oxidation : 2S2 O2− 2−

3 (aq) → S4 O6 (aq) + 2e
−

S2 O2−
3 thiosulphate get oxidized so it is reducing agent

Reduction : 2e− + I2 (s) → 2I − (aq)

I2 get reduced so it is oxidising agent

S2 O2− 2− − +
3 (aq) + 2Br2 (l) + 5 H2 O(l) → 2SO4 (aq) + 4Br (aq) + 10H (aq)

oxidation : S2 O2− 2−
3 (aq) → 2SO4 (aq)

O.No. of Sulphur +2 +6

reduction : Br2 (l) + 2e− → 2Br − (aq)

S2 O2−
3 get oxidized so it is reducing agent while 𝐵𝑟2 get reduced to it oxidizing
agent here.

15. Justify giving reactions that among halogens, fluorine is the best oxidant and among
hydrohalic compounds, hydroiodic acid is the best reductant.

Solution:
F2 can oxidize Cl− to Cl2 , Br − to Br2 , and I − to I2
F2 + 2Cl− → 2 𝐹 −1 + Cl2 ,

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F2 + 2Br − → Br2 + 2 𝐹 −1
F2 + 2I − → I2 + 2 𝐹 −1
On the other hand, Cl2 , Br2 , and I2 cannot oxidize F − to F2 . The oxidizing power
of halogens
increases in the order of I2 < Br2 < Cl2 < F2 . Hence, fluorine is the best oxidant
among halogens. Standard Reduction Potential value is highest for F2
HI and HBr can reduce H2 SO4 to SO2 , but HCl and HF cannot. Therefore, HI and
HBr are stronger reductants than HCl and HF.
2HI + H2 SO4 ⟶ I2 + SO2 + 2H2 O
2HBr + H2 SO4 ⟶ Br2 + SO2 + 2H2 O
I − can reduce Cu2+ to Cu+
4I − (aq ) + 2Cu2+ ( aq) ⟶ Cu2 I2 ( s ) + I2 ( aq )
Hence, hydroiodic acid is the best reductant among hydrohalic compounds.
Thus, the reducing power of hydrohalic acids increases in the order of HF < HCl <
HBr < HI. Due to top to bottom reducing character increases as to bond length
increase.

16. Why does the following reaction occur?

XeO4− − +
6 (aq) + 2F (aq) + 6H (aq) → XeO3 (g) + F2 (g) + 3H2 O(l)

What conclusion about the compound Na4 XeO6 (of which XeO4−
6 is a part) can be
drawn from the reaction.

Solution:
The given reaction occurs because XeO4− − − 4−
6 oxidises F and F reduces XeO6

XeO4− − +
6 (aq) + 2F (aq) + 6H (aq) → XeO3 (g) + F2 (g) + 3H2 O(l)

In this reaction, the O.N. (O. N. ) of Xe decreases from +8 in XeO4−

6 to +6 in XeO3
−
and the O. N. of F increases from – 1 in F to 𝑧𝑒𝑟𝑜 in F2 Hence, we can
conclude that Na4 XeO6 is a stronger oxidising agent than F − .

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17. Consider the reactions:

(A) H3 PO2 (aq) + 4AgNO3 (aq) + 2H2 O(l) → H3 PO4 (aq) + 4Ag(s) +
4HNO3 (aq)
(B) H3 PO2 (aq) + 2CuSO4 (aq) + 2H2 O(l) → H3 PO4 (aq) + 2Cu(s) +
H2 SO4 (aq)
(C) C6 H5 CHO(l) + 2[Ag(NH3 )2 ]+ (aq) + 3OH − (aq) → C6 H5 COO− (aq) +
2Ag(s) + 4NH3 (aq) + 2H2 O(l)
(D) C6 H5 CHO(l) + 2Cu2+ (aq) + 5OH − (aq) → No change observed.
What inference do you draw about the behaviour of Ag + and Cu2+ from these
reactions ?

Solution:
(A) Ag + (aq) + e− → Ag(s)
(B) Cu+2 (aq) + 2e− → Cu(s)
(C) [Ag(NH3 )2 ]+ (aq) + e− → Ag(s)

𝐴𝑔+ and Cu2+ act as oxidising agents in reactions (a) and (b)respectively.
In reaction (c), 𝐴𝑔+ oxidises C6 H5 CHO to C6 H5 COO− , but in reaction (d), Cu2+
cannot oxidise C6 H5 CHO.
Hence, Cu2+ is a stronger oxidising agent than Cu2+ .

18. Balance the following redox reactions by ion – electron method :

(A) MnO− −
4 (aq) + I (aq) → MnO2 (s) + I2 (s) (in basic medium)

(B) MnO− 2+ −
4 (aq) + SO2 (g) → Mn (aq) + HSO4 (aq) (in acidic solution)

(C) H2 O2 (aq) + Fe2+ (aq) → Fe3+ (aq) + H2 O(l) (in acidic solution)
(D) Cr2 O2− 3+ 2−
7 + SO2 (g) → Cr (aq) + SO4 (aq) (in acidic solution)

Solution:
(a) Step 1: The two half reactions involved in the given reaction are:

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Class–XI–CBSE-Chemistry Redox Reactions

Oxidation half reaction: I −1 (aq) → I2 (s)

Reduction half reaction: 𝑀nO4− (aq) → M nO2 (aq)
Step 2: Balancing I in the oxidation half reaction, we have:
Now, to balance the atom, we multiply I − 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 2 into the LHS of the
reaction
2I − (aq) → I2 (s)
Now, to balance the charge, we add 2e– to the RHS of the reaction.
2I − (aq) → I2 (s) + 2e−
Step 3: In the reduction half-reaction, Balance the atoms other than O and
H in each half-reaction individually. Here the to balance the atoms add 𝐻2 𝑂
to balance O atoms and 𝐻 +
to balance H atoms.
Thus,we get : MnO− +
4 (aq) + 4H → MnO2 (aq) + 2𝐻2 𝑂

Step 4:The reaction occurs in a basic medium, so we add 4OH – ions to the
RHS and right-hand side.
MnO− + –
4 (aq) + 4H + 4OH → MnO2 (aq) + 2𝐻2 𝑂+4OH
–

= MnO−
4 (aq) + 2𝐻2 𝑂 → MnO2 (aq) + 4OH
–

Step 5 : To balance the charge add 3 electrons are added to the LHS of the
reaction.
3e− + MnO−
4 (aq) + 2𝐻2 𝑂 → MnO2 (aq) + 4OH
–

Step 6: Equalising the number of electrons by multiplying the oxidation

half-reaction by 3 and the reduction half-reaction by 2, we have:
6I − (aq) → 3I2 (s) + 6e−
2MnO− − −
4 (cq) + 4H2 O + 6e → MnO2 (s) + 8 OH (aq)

Step 7: Adding the two half-reactions, we have the net balanced redox
reaction as:
6I − (aq) + 2MnO− −
4 (aq) + 4H2 O(l) → 3I2 (s) + 2MnO2 (s) + 8OH (aq)

(b) MnO− 2+ −
4 (aq) + SO2 (g) → Mn (aq) + HSO4 (aq)(in acidic
solution)Following the steps as in part (a), we have the oxidation half-reaction as:
SO2 (g) → HSO−
4 (aq)

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Class–XI–CBSE-Chemistry Redox Reactions

Step 1:In the reduction half-reaction, Balance the atoms other than O and
H in each half-reaction individually. Here the to balance the atoms add 𝐻2 𝑂
to balance O atoms and 𝐻 + to balance H atoms.
2H2 O(l) + SO2 (g) → HSO−
4 (aq) + 3𝐻
+

Step 2:To balance the charge add 2 electrons are added to the RHS of the
reaction.

2H2 O(l) + SO2 (g) → HSO− +

4 (aq) + 3𝐻 +2e
−

the reduction half reaction as:

Step 3: In the reduction half-reaction, Balance the atoms other than O and
H in each half-reaction individually. Here the to balance the atoms add 𝐻2 𝑂
to balance O atoms and 𝐻 + to balance H atoms.
MnO− + 2+
4 (aq) + 8H (aq) → Mn (aq) + 4H2 O(l)

Step 4 : To balance the charge add 5 electrons are added to the LHS of the
reaction.
MnO− + − 2+
4 (aq) + 8H (aq) + 5e → Mn (aq) + 4H2 O(l)

Step 5 :Multiplying the oxidation half reaction by 5 and the reduction half
reaction by 2, and then by adding them, we have the net balanced redox
reaction as:
2MnO− +
4 (aq) + 5SO2 (g) + 2H2 O(l) + H (aq)
→ 2Mn2+ (aq) + 5HSO− 4 (aq)

(c) Following the steps as in part (a), we have the oxidation half reaction as:
Step 1:To balance the charge add 1 electron in RHS
Fe2+ (aq) → Fe3+ (aq) + e−
And the reduction half reaction as:
Step 2: Balance the atoms other than O and H in each half-reaction
individually. Here the to balance the atoms add 𝐻2 𝑂 to balance O
atoms and 𝐻 + to balance H atoms.
H2 O2 (aq) + 2H + (aq) → 2H2 O(l)
Step 3:To balance the charge add 2 electrons are added to the LHS of the
reaction.

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Class–XI–CBSE-Chemistry Redox Reactions

2𝑒 − + H2 O2 (aq) + 2H + (aq) → 2H2 O(l)

Step 4: Multiplying the oxidation half reaction by 2 and then adding it to

the reduction half reaction, we have the net balanced redox reaction as:
H2 O2 (aq) + 2Fe2+ (aq) + 2H + (aq) → 2Fe3+ (aq) + 2H2 O(l)

(d) Following the steps as in part (a), we have the oxidation half reaction as:
Step 1: Balance the atoms other than O and H in each half-reaction
individually. Here the to balance the atoms add 𝐻2 𝑂 to balance O atoms and
𝐻 + to balance H atoms.
SO2 (g) + 2H2 O(l) → SO2− +
4 + 4H (aq)

Step 2: To balance the charge add 2 electrons are added to the RHS of the
reaction.
SO2 (g) + 2H2 O(l) → SO2− +
4 + 4H (aq) + 2e
−

the reduction half reaction as:

Step 3: Balance the Cr atom multiply the Cr 3+ with 2 in RHS
Cr2 O2− 3+
7 → 2Cr (aq)

𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐩 𝟒: Balance the atoms other than O and H in each half-reaction

individually. Here the to balance the atoms add 𝐻2 𝑂 to balance O atoms and
𝐻 + to balance H atoms.
Cr2 O2− + 3+
7 + 14H (aq) → 2Cr (aq) + 7H2 O(l)

𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐩 𝟓: To balance the charge add 6 electrons are added to the LHS of the
reaction.
Cr2 O2− + − 3+
7 + 14H (aq) + 6e → 2Cr (aq) + 7H2 O(l)

Multiplying the oxidation half reaction by 3 and then adding it to the

reduction half reaction, we have the net balanced redox reaction as:
Cr2 O2− + 3+ 2−
7 + 3SO2 (g) + 2H (aq) → 2Cr (aq) + 3SO4 + H2 O(l)

19. Balance the following equations in basic medium by ion-electron method and O.N.
methods and identify the oxidising agent and the reducing agent.

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Class–XI–CBSE-Chemistry Redox Reactions

P4 (s) + OH − (aq) → PH3 (g) + HPO−

2 (aq)

N2 H4 (l) + ClO− −
3 (aq) → NO(G) + Cl (G)

Cl2 O7 (g) + H2 O2 (aq) → ClO−

2 (aq) + O2 (g) + H
+

Solution:
(a)

The O. N. (O.N.) of P decreases from 0 in P4 to – 3 in PH3 and increases from 0 in

P4 to +2 in HPO− 2 . Hence, P4 acts both as an oxidizing agent and a reducing agent
in this reaction.
Ion–electron method:
The oxidation half equation is:
P4 (s ) → HPO−
2 (aq)

The P atom is balanced as:

P4 → 4HPO−
2 (aq)

The O atom is balanced by adding 8H2 O molecules:

P4 + 8H2 O → 4HPO2− (aq)
The H atom is balanced by adding 12H + ions:
P 4 + 8H2 O → 4HPO−
2 (aq) + 12H
+

The charge is balanced by adding 8 e– as:

P4 + 8H2 O → 4HPO2− (aq) + 12H + + 8e− …(i)
The reduction half equation is:
P4 (s) → PH3 (g)
The P atom is balanced as:
P4 → 4PH3 (g)

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Class–XI–CBSE-Chemistry Redox Reactions

The H is balanced by adding 12H + as:

P4 + 12H + → 4PH3 (g)
The charge is balanced by adding 12e– as:
P4 + 12H + + 12e− → 4PH3 (g)…(ii)
By multiplying equation (i) with 3 and (ii) with 2 and then adding them, the
balanced chemical equation can be obtained as:
5P4 (s) + 24H2 O → 12HPO2− + 8PH3 (g) + 12H +
As, the medium is basic, add 12OH – both sides as:
5P4 (s) + 12H2 O + 12OH − → 12HPO−
2 + 8PH3 (g)

This is the balanced equation by ion-electron method

O.N. method:
Let, total no of P reduced = x
∴Total no of P oxidised = 4 − x
P4 (s) + OH − → xPH3 (g) + (4 − x)HPO−
2 …(i)

Total decrease in O.N. of P = x × 3 = 3x

Total increase in O.N. of P = (4 − x) × 2 = 8– 2x
∵ 3x = 82x x = 8/5 from (i),
5P4 (s) + 5OH − → 8PH3 (g) + 12HPO2−
Since, reaction occurs in basic medium, the charge is balanced by adding 7OH – on
LHS as:
5P4 (s) + 12OH − → 8PH3 (g) + 12HPO−
2

The O atoms are balanced by adding 12H2 O as:

5P4 (s) + 12H2 O + 12OH − → +12HPO−
2 + 8PH3 (g)

This is the required balanced equation.

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(b)

The O.N. of N increases from – 2 in N2 H4 to +2 in NO and the O.N. of Cl decreases

from +5 in ClO3− to – 1 in Cl− . Hence, in this reaction, N2 H4 is the reducing agent
and ClO3− is the oxidizing agent.
Ion–electron method:
The oxidation half equation is:
−2 +2
N2 H4 (l) → N O(g)
The N atoms are balanced as:
N2 H4 (l) → 2NO(g)
The O.N. is balanced by adding 8 electrons as
N2 H4 (l) → 2NO(g) + 8e−
The charge is balanced by adding 8OH − ions as:
N2 H4 (l) + 8OH − (aq) → 2NO(g) + 8e−
The O atoms are balanced by adding 6H2 O as:
N2 H4 (l) + 8OH − (aq) → 2NO(g) + 6H2 O(l) + 8e− …(i)
The reduction half equation is:
+2 +1
C lO− −
2 (aq) → C l (aq)

The O.N. is balanced by adding 6 electrons as:

ClO3− (aq) + 6e− → Cl− (aq)
Th charge is balanced by adding 6OH − ions as:
ClO3− (aq) + 6e− → Cl− (aq) + 6OH − (aq) …(ii)
The balanced equation can be obtained by multiplying equation (i) with 3 and
equation (ii) with 4 and then adding them as:
3N2 H4 (l) + 4ClO3− (aq) → 6NO(g) + 4Cl− (aq) + 6H2 O(l)

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O.N. method:
Total decrease in O.N. of N = 2 × 4 = 8
Total increase in O.N. of Cl = 1 × 6 = 6
On multiplying N2 H4 with 3 and ClO−
3 with 4 to balance the increase and decrease
in O. N., we get:
3N2 H4 (l) + 4ClO3− (aq) → NO(g) + Cl− (aq)
The N and Cl atoms are balanced as:
3N2 H4 (l) + 4ClO3 (aq) → 6NO(g) + 4Cl− (aq)
The O atoms are balanced by adding 6H2 O as:
3N2 H4 (l) + 4ClO3− (aq) → 6NO(g) + 4Cl− (aq) + 6H2 O(l)
This is the required balanced equation.
(c)

The O.N. of Cl decreases from +7 in Cl2 O7 to +3 in ClO−

2 and the oxidation

number of O increases from – 1 in H2 O2 to zero in O2 . Hence, in this reaction, Cl2 O7

is the
oxidizing agent and H2 O2 is the reducing agent.
Ion–electron method:
The oxidation half equation is:
−1 0
H2 O 2 (aq) → O2 (g)
The O.N. is balanced by adding 2 electrons as:
H2 O2 (aq) → O2 (g) + 2e−
The charge is balanced by adding 2OH − ions as:
H2 O2 (aq) → 2OH− (aq) + 2e−
The oxygen atoms are balanced by adding 2H2 O as:

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Class–XI–CBSE-Chemistry Redox Reactions

H2 O2 (aq) + 2OH− (aq) → +2H2 O(l) + 2e− …(i)

The reduction half equation is:
+7 +3
C l2 O7 (g) → C lO−
2 (aq)

The Cl atoms are balanced as:

Cl2 O7 (g) → 2ClO−
2 (aq)

The O.N. is balanced by adding 8 electrons as:

Cl2 O7 (g) + 8e− → 2ClO−
2 (aq)

The charge is balanced by adding 6OH − as:

Cl2 O7 (g) + 8e− → 2ClO− −
2 (aq) + 6OH (aq)

The oxidation atoms are balanced by adding 3H2 O as:

Cl2 O7 (g) + 3H2 O(l)8e− → 2ClO2− (aq) + 6OH − (aq) …(ii)
The balanced equation can be obtained by multiplying equation (i) with 4 and
adding equation (ii) to it as:
Cl2 O7 (g) + 4H2 O2 (aq) + 2OH − (aq) → 2ClO−
2 + 4O2 (g) + 5H2 O(l)

O.N. method:
Total decrease in O.N. of Cl2 O7 = 4 × 2 = 8
Total increase in O.N. of H2 O2 = 2 × 1 = 2
By multiplying H2 O2 and O2 with 4 to balance the increase and decrease in the
O.N., we get:
Cl2 O7 (g) + 4H2 O2 (aq) → ClO2− (aq) + 4O2 (g)
The Cl atoms are balanced as:
Cl2 O7 (g) + 4H2 O2 (aq) → 2ClO−
2 (aq) + 4O2 (g)

The O atoms are balanced by adding 3H2 O as:

Cl2 O7 (g) + 4H2 O2 (aq) → 2ClO−
2 (aq) + 4O2 (g) + 3H2 O(l)

The H atoms are balanced by adding 2OH − and 2H2 O as:

Cl2 O7 (g) + 4H2 O2 (aq) → 2ClO−
2 (aq) + 4O2 (g) + 5H2 O(l)

20. What sorts of informations can you draw from the following reaction?

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Class–XI–CBSE-Chemistry Redox Reactions

(CN)2 (g) + 2OH − (aq) → CN− (aq) + CNO− (aq) + H2 O(l)

Solution:
Let the O.N. of C be x.
(CN)2
2(x − 3) = 0
∴x=3
CN−
x − 3 = −1
∴x=2
CNO−
x − 3 − 2 = −1
∴x=4
The O.N.s of carbon in (CN)2, CN− and CNO− are +3, +2 and +4
The O.N. of carbon in the various species is:
+3 +2 +4
(C N) (g) + 2OH− (aq) → C N − (aq) + C NO− (aq) + H2 O(l)
2
+3
It can be easily observed that the same compound ( C N) is being reduced in
2
+2 +4
− −
C N and oxidized in C NO simultaneously in the given equation. So it is a
disproportionation reaction. Thus, it can be said that the alkaline decomposition of
cyanogen is an example of a disproportionation reaction.

21. The Mn3+ ion is unstable in solution and undergoes disproportionation to give
Mn2+ , MnO2 , and H + ion. Write a balanced ionic equation for the reaction.

Solution:
The given reaction can be represented as:
Mn3+ (aq) → Mn2+ (aq) + MnO2 (s) + H + (aq)

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The oxidation half equation is:

Mn3+ (aq) → MnO2 (s)
The O atoms and H + ions are balanced by adding 2H2 O molecules as:
Mn3+ + 2H2 O(l) → MnO2 (s) + 4H + (aq)
To balance the charge add 1 electron in RHS
Mn3+ + 2H2 O(l) → MnO2 (s) + 4H + (aq) + e− …(i)
The reduction half equation is:
Mn3+ (aq) → Mn+2 (aq)
To balance the charge add 1 electron in LHS
Mn3+ (aq) + e− → Mn2+ (aq) …(ii)
The balanced chemical equation can be obtained by adding equation (i) and (ii) as:
2Mn3+ (aq) + 2H2 O(l) → MnO2 (s) + 2Mn2+ (aq) + 4H + (aq)

22. Consider the elements :

Cs, Ne, I and F
(a) Identify the element that exhibits only negative oxidation state.
(b) Identify the element that exhibits only positive oxidation state.
(c) Identify the element that exhibits both positive and negative oxidation
states.
(d) Identify the element which exhibits neither the negative nor does the
positive oxidation state.

Solution:
(a) F exhibits only negative oxidation state of – 1 because it has highest
electronegativity
(b) Cs exhibits positive oxidation state of +1because it is alkali metal atom
(c) I exhibit both positive and negative oxidation states. It exhibits oxidation
states of –1, +1, +3, +5, and +7.

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(d) The oxidation state of Ne is zero. It can not exhibits negative or positive
oxidation states because it has complete octate

23. Chlorine is used to purify drinking water. Excess of chlorine is harmful. The excess
of chlorine is removed by treating with sulphur dioxide. Present a balanced equation
for this redox change taking place in water.

Solution:
The given redox reaction can be represented as:
Cl2 (s) + SO2 (aq) + H2 O(l) → Cl− (aq) + SO2−
4

The oxidation half-reaction is.

SO2 (aq) → SO2−
4 (aq)

to balance the O − atom add H2 O in oxygen deficient side

2𝐻2 𝑂 (l) + SO2 (aq) → SO2−
4 (aq)

to balance the H − atom add H + in hydrogen deficient side

2𝐻2 𝑂 (l) + SO2 (aq) → SO2− +
4 (aq) + 4H (aq)

to balance charge add add two electrons as:

2𝐻2 𝑂 (l) + SO2 (aq) → SO2− +
4 (aq) + 4H (aq) + 2e
−

Cl2 (s) → Cl− (aq)

The chlorine atoms are balanced as:
Cl2 (s) → 2Cl− (aq)
to balance charge add add two electrons as:
2e− + Cl2 (s) → 2Cl− (aq)
Add both half reaction we get net reaction :
Cl2 (s) + SO2 (aq) + 2H2 O(l) → 2Cl− (aq) + SO2− +
4 (aq) + 4H (aq)

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24. Refer to the periodic table given in your book and now answer the following
questions:
(a) Select the possible non metals that can show disproportionation reaction.
(b) Select three metals that can show disproportionation reaction.

Solution:
In disproportionation reactions, one of the reacting substances always contains an
element that can exist in at least three oxidation states,
(a) P, Cl, Br,I, and S can show disproportionation reactions as these elements
can exist in three or more oxidation states,
(b) Mn, Cu, and Ga can show disproportionation reactions as these elements
can exist in three or more oxidation states.

25. In Ostwald’s process for the manufacture of nitric acid, the first step involves the
oxidation of ammonia gas by oxygen gas to give nitric oxide gas and steam. What
is the maximum weight of nitric oxide that can be obtained starting only with
10.00 g. of ammonia and 20.00 g of oxygen?

Solution:
The balanced chemical equation for the given reaction is given as:
4 NH3 + 5 O2 → 4NO + 6 H2 O
Weight 10.00 g 20.00 g - -
Moles 10/17 20/32
10 20
𝑀𝑜𝑙𝑒𝑠 17
= 0.147 32 = 0.104
𝑆. 𝐶. 4 5
O2 is limiting reagent
Thus, 68 g of NH3 reacts with 160 g of O2
160×10
Therefore, 10g of NH3 reacts with of O2 , or 23.53 g of O2 .
68

Therefore, O2 is the limiting reagent (we have considered the amount of O2 to

calculate the weight of nitric oxide obtained in the reaction).

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Now, 160g of O2 gives 120g of NO.

120× 20
Therefore, 20g of O2 gives g of N, or 15g of NO.
160

Hence, a maximum of 15g of nitric oxide can be obtained.

26. Using the standard electrode potentials given in the Table 8.1, predict if the reaction
between the following is feasible:
(a) Fe3+ (aq) and I − (aq)
(b) Ag + (aq) and Cu(s)
(c) Fe3+ (aq) and Cu(s)
(d) Ag(s) and Fe3+ (aq)
(e) Br2 (aq) and Fe2+ (aq)

Solution:
(a) The possible reaction between Fe3+ (aq) + I − (aq) is given by
2Fe3+ (aq) + I − (aq) → 2Fe2+ (aq) + I2 (s)

E o for the overall reaction is positive. Thus, the reaction between

Fe3+ (aq) + I− (aq) is feasible.
(b) The possible reaction between Ag + (aq) + Cu(s) is given by,
2Ag + (aq) + Cu(s) → 2Ag(s) + Cu2+ (aq)

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E o for the overall reaction is positive. Thus, the reaction between

Ag + (aq)and Cu(s) is feasible.
(c) The possible reaction between Fe3+ (aq) and Cu(s) is given by,
2Fe3+ (aq) + Cu(s) → 2Fe2+ (s) + Cu2+ (aq)

E o for the overall reaction is positive. Thus, the reaction between Fe3+ (aq)
and Cu(s) is feasible.
(d) The possible reaction between Fe3+ (aq) and Ag(s) is given by,
Ag (s) 2Fe3+ (aq) → Ag + (aq)+Fe2+ (aq)

Here E o for the overall reaction is positive. Thus, the reaction between
Fe3+ (aq) and Ag(s) is not feasible.
(e) The possible reaction between Br2 (aq) and Fe2+ (aq) is given by
Br2 (aq) + 2Fe2+ (aq) → 2Br − (aq) + 2Fe3+ (aq)

Here E o for the overall reaction is positive. Thus, the reaction between
Br2 (aq) and Fe2+ (aq) is feasible.

27. Predict the products of electrolysis in each of the following:

(i) An aqueous solution of AgNO3 with silver electrodes
(ii) An aqueous solution AgNO3 with platinum electrodes

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(iii) A dilute solution of H2 SO4 with platinum electrodes

(iv) An aqueous solution of CuCl2 with platinum electrodes.

Solution:
(i) AgNO3 ionizes in aqueous solutions to form Ag + and NO− 3 ions. On
electrolysis,either Ag + ions or H2 O molecules can be reduced at the
cathode. But the reduction potential of Ag + ions is higher than that of H2 O.
Ag + (aq) + e− → Ag(s); E o = −0.80 V
2H2 O(l) + 2e− → H2 (g) + 2OH − (aq); E o = 0.83V
Hence, Ag + ions are reduced at the cathode. Similarly, Ag metal or H2 O
molecules can be oxidized at the anode. But the oxidation potential of Ag
is higher than that of H2 O molecules.
Ag(s) → Ag + (aq) + e− ; E o = −0.80V
2H2 O(l) → O2 (g) + 4H + (aq) + 4e− ; E o = −1.23V
Therefore, Ag metal gets oxidized at the anode.
(ii) Pt cannot be oxidized easily. Hence, at the anode, oxidation of water occurs
to liberate O2 .
At the cathode, Ag + ions are reduced and get deposited.
(iii) H2 SO4 ionizes in aqueous solutions to give H + and SO2−
4 ions.

H2 SO4 (aq) → 2H + (aq) + SO2−

4

On electrolysis, either of H + ions or H2 O molecules can get reduced at the

cathode. But the reduction potential of H + ions is higher than that of H2 O
molecules.
2H + (aq) + 2e− → H2 (g); E o = 0.0V
2H2 O(aq) + 2e− → H2 (g)OH − (aq); E o = −0.83V
Hence, at the cathode, H + ions are reduced to liberate H2 gas.
On the other hand, at the anode, either of SO2−
4 ions or H2 O molecules can
2−
get oxidized. But the oxidation of SO4 involves breaking of more bonds
than that of H2 O molecules. Hence, SO2− 4 ions have a lower oxidation
potential than H2 O. Thus, H2 O is oxidized at the anode to liberate O2
molecules.
(iv) In aqueous solutions, CuCl2 ionizes to give Cu2+ and Cl− ions as:
CuCl2 (aq) → Cu2+ (aq) + 2Cl− (aq)

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On electrolysis, either of Cu2+ ions or H2 O molecules can get reduced at

the cathode. But the reduction potential of Cu2+ is more than that of H2 O
molecules.
Cu2+ (aq) + 2e− → Cu(aq); E o = +0.34V
H2 O(l) + 2e− → H2 (g) + 2OH − ; E o = −0.83V
Hence, Cu2+ ions are reduced at the cathode and get deposited.
Similarly, at the anode, either of Cl− or H2O is oxidized. The oxidation
potential of H2O is
higher than that of Cl−
2Cl− (aq) → Cl2 (g) + 2e− ; E o = −1.36V
2H2 O(l) → O2 (g) + 4H + (aq) + 4e− ; E o = −1.23V
But oxidation of H2 O molecules occurs at a lower electrode potential than
that of Cl− ions because of over-voltage (extra voltage required to liberate
gas). As a result, Cl− .ions are oxidized at the anode to liberate Cl2 gas.
Similarly, at the anode, either of Cl− or H2 O is oxidized. The oxidation
potential of H2 O is higher than that of Cl− .

28. Arrange the following metals in the order in which they displace each other from
the solution of their salts.
Al, Cu, Fe, Mg and Zn.

Solution:
A metal of stronger reducing power displaces another metal of weaker reducing
power from its solution of salt.
According to electrochemical series the order of the increasing reducing the power
of the given metals is Cu < Fe < Zn < Al < Mg.
Hence, we can say that Mg can displace Al from its salt solution, but Al cannot
displace Mg.
Thus, the order in which the given metals displace each other from the solution of
their salts is given below: Mg > Al > Zn > Fe, > Cu

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29. Given the standard electrode potentials,

K + ⁄K = −2.93V,
Ag + ⁄Ag = 0.80V,
Hg 2+ ⁄Hg = 0.79V
Mg 2+ ⁄Mg = −2.37V.
Cr 3+ ⁄Cr = −0.74V
arrange these metals in their increasing order of reducing power.

Solution:
The lower the electrode potential, the stronger is the reducing agent. Therefore, the
increasing order of the reducing power of the given metals is Ag < Hg < Cr <
Mg < K.

30. Depict the galvanic cell in which the reaction Zn(s) + 2Ag + (aq) → Zn2+ (aq) +
2Ag(s)takes place, Further show:
(i) which of the electrode is negatively charged,
(ii) the carriers of the current in the cell, and
(iii) individual reaction at each electrode

Solution:
The galvanic cell corresponding to the given redox reaction can be represented as:
Zn|Zn2+ (aq)|Ag + (aq)|Ag
(i) Zn electrode is negatively charged because at this electrode, Zn oxidizes to
Zn2+ and the leaving electrons accumulate on this electrode.
(ii) Ions are the carriers of current in the cell.
(iii) The reaction taking place at the Zn electrode can be represented as:
Zn(s) → Zn2+ (aq) + 2e−
And the reaction taking place at the Ag electrode can be represented as:
Ag + (aq) + e− → Ag(s)

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