Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the concept of a Lewis acid in organic chemistry?
A
A Lewis acid is a substance that donates an electron pair.
B
A Lewis acid is a substance that donates a proton.
C
A Lewis acid is a substance that accepts an electron pair.
D
A Lewis acid is a substance that accepts a proton.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the concept of Lewis acids and bases. In organic chemistry, a Lewis acid is defined as a substance that can accept an electron pair, while a Lewis base is a substance that can donate an electron pair.
Consider the options provided in the problem. The first option states that a Lewis acid donates an electron pair, which is incorrect because this describes a Lewis base.
The second option suggests that a Lewis acid donates a proton. This is incorrect as it describes a Brønsted-Lowry acid, not a Lewis acid.
The third option correctly states that a Lewis acid is a substance that accepts an electron pair. This aligns with the definition of a Lewis acid in organic chemistry.
The fourth option mentions that a Lewis acid accepts a proton, which is incorrect because accepting a proton is characteristic of a Brønsted-Lowry base, not a Lewis acid.