Answer to Question #152418 in Inorganic Chemistry for dianne

Question

balanced equation of p + cu2+ -> cu + h2po4

Answer 1

P in P has an oxidation state of 0

P in H₂PO₄ has an oxidation state of +6

So, P in P is oxidized to H₂PO₄

Cu in Cu⁺² has an oxidation state of +2

Cu in Cu has an oxidation state of 0

So, Cu in Cu⁺² is reduced to Cu

Reduction half cell:

Cu⁺² + 2e- → Cu

Oxidation half cell:

P → H₂PO₄ + 6e-

Balance number of electrons to be same in both half-reactions

Reduction half cell:

3Cu⁺² + 6e- → 3Cu

Oxidation half cell:

P → H₂PO₄ + 6e-

Let's combine both the reactions.

3Cu⁺² + 1P → 3Cu + 1H₂PO₄

Balance Oxygen by adding water

3Cu⁺² + 1P + 4H₂O → 3Cu + 1H₂PO₄

Balance Hydrogen by adding H+

3Cu⁺² + 1P + 4H₂O → 3Cu + 1H₂PO₄ + 6H+

This is balanced chemical equation in acidic medium

Answer: 3Cu²⁺ + P + 4H₂O --> 3Cu + H₂PO₄ + 6H⁺