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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Protic Acid and Lewis Acid?

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The main difference between protic acid and Lewis acid lies in their ability to donate or accept protons and electrons, respectively. Here is a comparison of the two types of acids:

  • Protic Acid:
  • Protic acids are proton donors.
  • They can produce a proton or a hydronium ion in their solution.
  • Examples include hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sulfuric acid (H2SO4).
  • Lewis Acid:
  • Lewis acids are proton acceptors.
  • They can accept an electron pair from an electron-donating species.
  • Examples include boron trifluoride (BF3) and aluminum chloride (AlCl3).

In summary, protic acids are characterized by their ability to donate protons, while Lewis acids are characterized by their ability to accept electron pairs.

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  • What is the Difference Between Protic Acid and Lewis Acid?
  • Comparative Table: Protic Acid vs Lewis Acid

    • Comparative Table: Protic Acid vs Lewis Acid

    The main difference between protic acids and Lewis acids is their behavior in relation to protons and electrons. Here is a table summarizing the differences:

    Property Protic Acid Lewis Acid
    Definition Protic acids are chemical compounds that can produce a proton or a hydronium ion in their solution. Lewis acids are chemical compounds that can accept an electron pair from an electron-donating compound.
    Proton Donation/Acceptance Protic acids donate protons to bases. Lewis acids accept electron pairs from bases.
    Examples Examples of protic acids include hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sulfuric acid (H2SO4). Examples of Lewis acids include boron trifluoride (BF3) and aluminum chloride (AlCl3).

    In summary, protic acids are proton donors, while Lewis acids are proton acceptors.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.