Question

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

Answer 1

`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)`