Sometimes it is easier and faster to balance equation using this method. The rules and some example are given here.

Rule I. Divide equation into oxidation half and reduction half.

Rule II. Balance atoms in each half equation. Then balance oxygen by adding H₂O and hydrogen by adding H⁺. In case of alkaline medium use OH ^- and H₂O as in oxidation number method. Step VI.

Rule III. Balance charges in each equation by adding electrons.

Rule IV. Using appropriate integers in make loss of electrons equal to gain of electrons and then add, so that, electrons get cancelled.

Rule V. Check the balance of all the atoms and charges.

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