Which coefficients correctly balance the formula equation #NH_4NO_2(s) -> N_2O(g) + H_2O(l)#?

1 Answer
May 19, 2017

#2NH_4^(+) +4NO_2^(-) +2H^(+)rarr 3N_2O +5H_2O#

This is a so-called #"comproportionation reaction".#

Explanation:

#"Oxidation half equation:"#

#2NH_4^(+) +H_2O rarr N_2O+10H^(+) + 8e^(-)# #(i)#

Ammonium ion is oxidized to #N_2O#

#"Reduction half equation:"#

#2NO_2^(-) +6H^+ +4e^(-) rarr N_2O+3H_2O# #(ii)#

Nitrite ion is reduced to #N_2O#

And we take #(i) + 2xx(ii)# to eliminate the electrons........

#2NH_4^(+) +4NO_2^(-) +2H^(+)rarr 3N_2O +5H_2O(l)#