Lewis acid

Welcome to the ninth episode of the Acids and Bases course! Building upon our previous discussions on acids, bases, neutralization, strong and weak acids, acid strength, conjugate acid-base pairs, and the Brønsted-Lowry theory, this episode introduces the concept of Lewis acids and bases. This broader definition expands the scope of acid-base chemistry beyond proton transfer. We will define Lewis acids and bases in terms of electron-pair donation and acceptance, explore their relationship to Brønsted-Lowry acids and bases, and examine examples of Lewis acid-base reactions. Understanding Lewis acids and bases is crucial for comprehending a wider range of chemical reactions, especially in organic and inorganic chemistry. This knowledge will be useful for future topics such as buffer capacity.

Check your understanding

These are the same multiple-choice questions you will see in the Quiz section after you listen to the episode. Use them here to preview or review the answers.

What is a Lewis acid?

  1. A proton donor.
  2. A proton acceptor.
  3. An electron-pair acceptor.
  4. An electron-pair donor.
  5. A substance that increases the hydroxide ion concentration.
  6. A substance with a pH greater than 7.

What is a Lewis base?

  1. A proton donor.
  2. A proton acceptor.
  3. An electron-pair acceptor.
  4. An electron-pair donor.
  5. A substance that increases the hydrogen ion concentration.
  6. A substance with a pH less than 7.

Are all Brønsted-Lowry bases also Lewis bases?

  1. Yes, because to accept a proton, a species must have a lone pair of electrons.
  2. No, because the Lewis definition only applies to organic molecules.
  3. No, because the definitions are completely unrelated.
  4. Yes, because both involve hydrogen ions.
  5. No, they are opposite definitions.
  6. Only in aqueous solutions

Are all Lewis acids also Brønsted-Lowry acids?

  1. Yes, because they both involve electron transfer.
  2. No, because Lewis acids do not necessarily have a proton to donate.
  3. Yes, because they both involve proton transfer.
  4. No, because the Lewis definition only applies to organic molecules.
  5. Yes, they are equivalent
  6. Only in aqueous solutions.

What type of bond is formed in a Lewis acid-base reaction?

  1. An ionic bond.
  2. A covalent bond.
  3. A coordinate covalent bond (dative bond).
  4. A hydrogen bond.
  5. A metallic bond.
  6. A double bond.

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