Redox Half-Reaction Balancer – AP Chemistry

Learning Objectives

Identify oxidation and reduction half-reactions

Balance half-reactions in acidic solution

Balance half-reactions in basic solution

Assign oxidation states to determine electron transfer

Balancing Steps (Acidic)

1. Separate into half-reactions
2. Balance atoms (not O or H)
3. Balance O with H₂O
4. Balance H with H⁺
5. Balance charge with e⁻
6. Equalize electrons, combine
Basic: Add OH⁻ to neutralize H⁺