Balance the following equation for an oxidation-reduction reaction occurring in an acidic solution:
ClO₄^-(aq) + SO₃^2-(aq) → SO₄^2-(aq) + Cl^-(aq)
The sum of the coefficients is ________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The balanced equation is $ClO^{-} + 3SO_{3}^{2-} + 4H^{+} \rightarrow Cl^{-} + 3SO_{4}^{2-} + 2H_{2}O$. The sum of the coefficients is 1 (for $ClO^{-}$) + 3 (for $SO_{3}^{2-}$) + 4 (for $H^{+}$) + 1 (for $Cl^{-}$) + 3 (for $SO_{4}^{2-}$) + 2 (for $H_{2}O$), which equals 14. However, since the correct sum is not listed as an option and the task was to identify the correct sum of coefficients from the given options, it appears there was a mistake in my calculation or interpretation of the options. The correct approach to balancing the equation involves identifying the changes in oxidation states and ensuring mass and charge balance, typically resulting in integer coefficients that sum up to a specific value. Given the options and the typical process for balancing redox reactions in acidic solutions, the sum should ideally match one of the provided choices if done correctly.

Balance the Following Equation for an Oxidation-Reduction Reaction Occurring in an Acidic