1. Write the Half-Reaction:
The balanced half-reaction for the reduction of nitrate ion to hydrazine in acidic solution is:
NO₃⁻(aq) + 8H⁺(aq) + 8e⁻ → N₂H₄(aq) + 3H₂O(l)
2. Identify the Electron Transfer:
Notice that the nitrate ion (NO₃⁻) gains 8 electrons to become hydrazine (N₂H₄).
3. The Answer:
Therefore, 8 electrons are involved in the reduction of nitrate ion to hydrazine.