Lewis Acids and Bases: MO Depiction

How can we describe acid/base reactions in terms of electron transfer?

Abstract

This activity is designed for undergraduate students enrolled in Inorganic Chemistry. Students should have previously taken two semesters of General Chemistry and have Organic Chemistry as a co- or pre-requisite. Topics covered in Inorganic Chemistry prior to this activity should include a review of Lewis Structures and Molecular Orbital Theory. This activity introduces Lewis acid and base concepts and explores them through the lens of molecular orbital theory. After completing this activity, students should be able to identify Lewis acids and bases in reactions but also describe how frontier molecular orbitals differ between reactants and products of a Lewis acid/base reaction. Changes in molecular orbital energies are illustrated through color changes and absorption spectroscopy.

Level: Undergraduate

Setting: Classroom

Activity Type: Learning Cycle

Discipline: Chemistry

Course: Inorganic Chemistry

Keywords: Lewis Acid, Lewis Base, Molecular Orbital, Frontier Orbital