Textbook Question
Sodium amide (NaNH2) dissociates to give a sodium cation (Na+) and amide ion (NH2-) a very strong base. In the following three equations, identify which definition of base is being exemplified.
(c)
3. Acids and Bases
Acids and Bases
1:39 minutesProblem 72c
Textbook Question
Predict the product of the following Lewis acid–Lewis base reactions.
(c) 
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the Lewis acid and Lewis base in the reaction. A Lewis acid is an electron pair acceptor, while a Lewis base is an electron pair donor.
Determine the lone pair of electrons on the Lewis base that will be donated to the Lewis acid. This typically involves identifying atoms with lone pairs, such as oxygen, nitrogen, or halogens.
Draw the interaction between the Lewis acid and Lewis base. Represent the donation of the electron pair from the base to the acid using an arrow pointing from the lone pair to the electron-deficient atom in the acid.
Form the product by combining the Lewis acid and Lewis base into a single species. This often results in the formation of a coordinate covalent bond between the two species.
Verify the structure of the product by ensuring that all atoms satisfy their valency requirements and that the formal charges are minimized, if possible.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Lewis Acids and Bases
Lewis acids are electron pair acceptors, while Lewis bases are electron pair donors. This definition expands the traditional Brønsted-Lowry concept of acids and bases, allowing for a broader range of chemical reactions. Understanding the nature of these species is crucial for predicting the products of reactions involving them.
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Reaction Mechanism
A reaction mechanism describes the step-by-step process by which reactants transform into products. It includes the formation and breaking of bonds, as well as the intermediates formed during the reaction. Analyzing the mechanism helps in predicting the final products of Lewis acid-base reactions.
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Product Stability
The stability of the products formed in a reaction is influenced by factors such as sterics, electronics, and resonance. More stable products are generally favored in chemical reactions. Evaluating the stability of potential products is essential for making accurate predictions in Lewis acid-base reactions.
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