Balancing redox half equations

[Wizard]

Hey guys, this question if from the Heinemann Chapter 5 review.

"Fe₂O₃ is converted into metallic Fe. Write the redox half equation."

When I did it, I used water and H⁺ for balancing, however, the solution does not include both of these species.
Is my answer right?

Thanks in advance

[NE2000]

Maybe they used instead of , in which case only electrons would be required?

This would also avoid issues with where the H+ ions came from

[Mao]

Hey guys, this question if from the Heinemann Chapter 5 review.

"Fe₂O₃ is converted into metallic Fe. Write the redox half equation."

When I did it, I used water and H⁺ for balancing, however, the solution does not include both of these species.
Is my answer right?

Thanks in advance

is this the thermite reaction?

[Wizard]

yeah

[Mao]

yeah, in thermite the aluminium is oxidized to Al3+, and forms alumina Al2O3.

The reaction is




have to know the context to properly do this question, in this reaction, the paste is put over where the iron is needed, no water, air [and especially no H+] can get in, and consequently, you can't use them in your equation. Though this most probably won't be in an VCE exam.

[chid]

Thanks Mao

[Wizard]

Soz, lol, wrote that on my bros account Damn, how do you get rid of it?