What sort of information can you draw from the following reaction?
$(CN)_{2(g)} + 2OH_{(aq)}^{-} \to CN_{(aq)}^{-} + CNO_{(aq)}^{-} + H_2O_{(l)}$

(N/A) To analyze the reaction,we calculate the oxidation number of $C$ in $(CN)_2$,$CN^-$,and $CNO^-$:
$1$. In $(CN)_2$: $2(x - 3) = 0 \implies x = +3$
$2$. In $CN^-$: $x - 3 = -1 \implies x = +2$
$3$. In $CNO^-$: $x - 3 - 2 = -1 \implies x = +4$
In the given reaction,the oxidation state of carbon changes from $+3$ to $+2$ (reduction) and $+3$ to $+4$ (oxidation).
Since the same element $(C)$ is simultaneously oxidized and reduced,this is a disproportionation reaction. Thus,the dissolution of cyanogen in a basic medium is a disproportionation reaction.