Question

How are protons removed when balancing a redox reaction in a basic solution?

Short answer

By introducing an equal number of ${\mathrm{OH}}^{-}$ on both sides of the reaction, the resultant ions are balanced.

Step-by-step solution

Definition of redox reaction

Electrons are transferred from one chemical material to another in many chemical processes. The oxidation-reduction or Redox reaction is the name given to these electron transport reactions.

Calculating how protons are removed when balancing a redox reaction in a basic solution

Protons are eliminated when balancing a redox reaction in a basic solution by adding an equal quantity of ${\mathrm{OH}}^{-}$on both sides.

The ${\mathrm{OH}}^{-}$ions and ${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$ions on the same side are later joined to create the water molecule.