Question

to begin balancing the oxidation half-reaction, what is the coefficient for co₂? h₂c₂o₄ → ?co₂

Explanation:

Step1: Count C atoms on left

Left side: \( \ce{H2C2O4} \) has 2 C atoms.

Step2: Balance C in \( \ce{CO2} \)

Right side: Each \( \ce{CO2} \) has 1 C. So need 2 \( \ce{CO2} \) to balance 2 C.

Answer:

2