Identify the Lewis acid and Lewis base from among the reactants in each equation. a. Fe³⁺(aq) + 6 H₂O(l) ⇌ Fe(H₂O)₆³⁺(aq) b. Zn²⁺(aq) + 4 NH₃(aq) ⇌ Zn(NH₃)₄²⁺(aq) c. (CH₃)₃N(g) + BF₃(g) ⇌ (CH₃)₃NBF₃(s)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the reactants in the equation: Fe^{3+} (aq) and H_2O (l).
2. Recall that a Lewis acid is a species that can accept an electron pair, while a Lewis base is a species that can donate an electron pair.
3. Consider the role of Fe^{3+} in the reaction. As a positively charged ion, it is likely to accept electron pairs from other species, making it a Lewis acid.
4. Consider the role of H_2O in the reaction. Water molecules have lone pairs of electrons that can be donated to form coordinate covalent bonds, making H_2O a Lewis base.
5. Conclude that in the reaction, Fe^{3+} acts as the Lewis acid and H_2O acts as the Lewis base.

Key Concepts

Lewis Acids and Bases

Lewis acids are substances that can accept an electron pair, while Lewis bases are those that can donate an electron pair. This definition expands the traditional Brønsted-Lowry concept of acids and bases, allowing for a broader range of chemical reactions to be analyzed. In the given reaction, identifying which species donates and which accepts electron pairs is crucial for determining the Lewis acid and base.

Coordination Complexes

Coordination complexes are formed when a central metal atom or ion binds to surrounding molecules or ions, known as ligands. In the provided equation, Fe3+ acts as the central metal ion, and H2O molecules serve as ligands. Understanding how these complexes form helps in identifying the roles of different species in the reaction.

Electron Pair Donation

Electron pair donation is a key process in Lewis acid-base chemistry, where a Lewis base donates a pair of electrons to a Lewis acid. This interaction leads to the formation of a new bond, resulting in a more stable complex. Recognizing which reactant donates the electron pair is essential for correctly identifying the Lewis base in the reaction.