Question

which side will the electrons go on?
6oh⁻ + br⁻ → bro₃⁻ + 3h₂o
a. add electrons to the reactant side.
b. add electrons to the product side.
enter the answer choice letter.

Explanation:

To determine where electrons go, analyze the oxidation state of Br. In \( \text{Br}^- \), Br has an oxidation state of -1. In \( \text{BrO}_3^- \), let the oxidation state of Br be \( x \). Using the rule for oxidation states (\( x + 3(-2) + (-1) = 0 \)), we solve \( x - 6 - 1 = 0 \) → \( x = +5 \). Br is oxidized (oxidation state increases from -1 to +5), so it loses electrons. In oxidation, electrons are products (lost by the reactant, so added to the product side to balance charge).

Answer:

B. Add electrons to the product side.