What is the disproportionation reaction of H_3PO_3?

1 Answer
Feb 18, 2017

4H_3PO_3 ----------> 3H_3PO_4 + PH_3

Explanation:

Disproportionation is a type of redox reaction where an element from a reaction undergoes both oxidation and reduction to form two different types of products. Similarly in case of H_3PO_3 gives two products on diproportionation on heating.

On heating H_3PO_3 it undergoes disproportionation reaction to give ortho phosphoric acid and phosphine.
4H_3PO_3 ----------> 3H_3PO_4 + PH_3

Each element undergoes oxidation and reduction:

Oxidation half reaction =
H_3PO_3 ----------> H_3PO_4

Reduction half reaction
H_3PO_3 ----------> PH_3