Some Regularities Inherent in the Balance 2∙f(O) – f(H) Formulated for an Electrolytic System with Symproportionation Reactions Involved

The general properties of the balance f12 = 2∙f(O) – f(H), as the linear combination of elemental balances: f1 = f(H) for H and f2 = f(O) for O, formulated for electrolytic systems, are presented. These properties/regularities are inherently related to linear combination (LC) of f12 with charge (f0) and other elemental/core balances fk = f(Yk) (Yk ≠ H, O), expressed by, where the multipliers dk are involved with oxidation numbers (ONs) of the elements in the system in question. The linear dependence or independence of f12 from f0,f3,…, fK, expressed by LC, provides the general criterion distinguishing between non-redox and redox systems. The f12 is the primary form of Generalized electron balance (GEB), completing the set of K independent balances f0,f12,f3,…,fK needed for the solution of a redox system according to GATES/GEB principles. For the solution of a non-redox system, the set of K–1 independent equations f0,f3,…,fK is required. In this formulation, the terms: ONs, oxidant, reductant, and equivalent mass are derivative/redundant concepts. These properties/regularities of f12 are illustrated here by a redox system where symproportionation reactions occur.