Question:

Which of the following species act as Lewis Acid? A. F$^-$ B. H$^+$ C. AlCl$_3$ D. BCl$_3$ E. H$_2$O

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Identify Lewis acids by looking for species with empty orbitals or a tendency to accept an electron pair (electron-deficient species).
Updated On: May 26, 2026
  • A, C and D only
  • C, D and E only
  • B, C and D only
  • B, C, D and E only
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation


Step 1: Concept

A Lewis acid is a species that can accept an electron pair from another molecule or ion.

Step 2: Meaning

Lewis acids have empty or available orbitals to receive electron pairs.

Step 3: Analysis

F$^-$ (A): Has lone pairs; acts as a Lewis base --- not a Lewis acid.
H$^+$ (B): Empty 1s orbital; strong Lewis acid --- Yes.
AlCl$_3$ (C): Incomplete octet on Al; strong Lewis acid --- Yes.
BCl$_3$ (D): Incomplete octet on B; strong Lewis acid --- Yes.
H$_2$O (E): Has lone pairs; acts as a Lewis base in most contexts --- not a primary Lewis acid.

Step 4: Conclusion

H$^+$ (B), AlCl$_3$ (C), and BCl$_3$ (D) are Lewis acids. Final Answer: (C)
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