What is the disproportionation reaction of #H_3PO_3#?

1 Answer
Feb 18, 2017

#4H_3##PO_3# ----------> #3H_3##PO_4# + #PH_3#

Explanation:

Disproportionation is a type of redox reaction where an element from a reaction undergoes both oxidation and reduction to form two different types of products. Similarly in case of #H_3##PO_3# gives two products on diproportionation on heating.

On heating #H_3##PO_3# it undergoes disproportionation reaction to give ortho phosphoric acid and phosphine.
#4H_3##PO_3# ----------> #3H_3##PO_4# + #PH_3#

Each element undergoes oxidation and reduction:

Oxidation half reaction =
#H_3##PO_3# ----------> #H_3##PO_4#

Reduction half reaction
#H_3##PO_3# ----------> #PH_3#