Balance the redox reaction Al(s) + MnO4^- (aq) --> MnO2 (s) + Al(OH)4^- (aq) in aqueous basic solution

Al + MnO4- + 2H2O → Al(OH)4- + MnO2

Explanation:

First of all, we out down the skeleton equation;

Al + MnO4- → MnO2 + Al(OH)4-

Secondly, we write the oxidation and reduction equation in basic medium;

Oxidation half equation:Al + 4H2O + 4OH- → Al(OH)4- + 4H2O + 3e-

Reduction half equation:MnO4- + 4H2O + 3e- → MnO2 + 2H2O + 4OH-

Thirdly, we add the two half reactions together to obtain:

Al + MnO4- + 8H2O + 4OH- + 3e- → Al(OH)4- + MnO2 + 6H2O + 3e- + 4OH-

Lastly, cancel out species that occur on both sides of the reaction equation;

Al + MnO4- + 8H2O→ Al(OH)4- + MnO2 + 6H2O

The simplified equation now becomes;

Al + MnO4- + 2H2O → Al(OH)4- + MnO2