The Iodine Exception (Faintly Alkaline / Neutral KMnO4)

Chemical Reaction:

$$2\text{MnO}_4^- + \text{H}_2\text{O} + \text{I}^- \longrightarrow 2\text{MnO}_2 + 2\text{OH}^- + \text{IO}_3^-$$

Concept: Highlights a high-yield transition trap where changing the solution pH radically alters the final product, forcing the iodide ion to oxidize completely into an iodate state instead of stopping at molecular iodine.

Notation:

• $$\text{IO}_3^-$$ = Iodate ion;
• $$\text{MnO}_2$$ = Insoluble manganese dioxide byproduct ($$\text{n-factor} = 3$$environment).