Lewis acids vs. Lewis bases
In the reaction BF3 + NH3 → F3B–NH3, BF3 acts as a:
Answer B: explanation for every choice
A
NH3 is the Lewis base, donating its lone pair.
B
Correct. Boron has an empty orbital and accepts the lone pair from nitrogen.
C
No proton is transferred, so the Brønsted–Lowry definitions do not apply.
D
No proton is accepted.
TakeawayLewis acid: electron-pair acceptor. Lewis base: electron-pair donor.
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Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID cp45.