How to Balance Redox Equations in Alkaline (and Acid) Solutions?
The Fuel Cell of Hydrogen and Oxygen can take place in Acid or Alkaline Solution. H₂ + 2 O₂ ------> 2 H₂O In either situation we first balance the redox equations in acid solution Oxidation Half Equation H₂ -----> H₂O 1. Add H₂O to balance O H₂O + H₂ -----> H₂O 2. Balance H with H+ H₂O + H₂ -----> H₂O + 2H⁺ 3. Balance charge with e⁻ There is 0 on LHS and +2 on RHS so add 2e to the RHS H₂O + H₂ ----> H₂O + 2H⁺ + 2e⁻ Cancel H₂O The oxidation equation is balanced in acid solu
