Consider the change in oxidation state of bromine corresponding to different emf values as shown in the given diagram : BrO4- 1.82 V BrO3- 1.5 V HBrO 1.595 V Br2 1.0652 V Br- Then the species undergoing disproportionation is :
- BrO4-
- BrO3-
- Br2
- HBrO
Answer
(4) HBrO
Solution
A species disproportionates when E cell = E right - E left > 0 (it is reduced as well as oxidised).
BrO3-: E cell = 1.5 - 1.82 = -0.32 V (no)
HBrO: E cell = 1.595 - 1.5 = +0.095 V (yes)
Br2: E cell = 1.0652 - 1.595 = -0.53 V (no)
BrO4- is in the highest oxidation state (+7) ⇒ it cannot be oxidised further.
∴ HBrO disproportionates: 2HBrO Br2 + BrO3- (unbalanced form).
Answer: (4)