- A Lewis base is a substance that can donate an electron pair to form a covalent bond.
- According to the Lewis theory of acids and bases, a Lewis base is an electron-pair donor.
- They are typically molecules or ions with lone pairs of electrons, which are electrons that are not involved in any chemical bonds.
- Examples of Lewis bases include ammonia (NH3), hydroxide ion (OH-), and pyridine (C5H5N).
Arrhenius base:
- An Arrhenius base is a substance that, when dissolved in water, releases hydroxide ions (OH-) into the solution.
- According to the Arrhenius theory of acids and bases, a base is a substance that increases the concentration of hydroxide ions in a solution.
- Arrhenius bases are typically metal hydroxides, such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide (KOH).
Key differences:
- The main difference between a Lewis base and an Arrhenius base is that a Lewis base can donate an electron pair, while an Arrhenius base releases hydroxide ions when dissolved in water.
- Lewis bases include a wider variety of substances, such as ammonia and pyridine, while Arrhenius bases are limited to metal hydroxides.
- The concept of a Lewis base is more general and applies to a wider range of chemical reactions, while the concept of an Arrhenius base is more specific to aqueous solutions.