Example of a substance that is a Bronsted-Lowry, but not Arrhenius

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying a substance that qualifies as a Bronsted-Lowry base but does not meet the criteria for an Arrhenius base. The focus is on theoretical definitions and classifications within acid-base chemistry.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests ammonia (NH3) as an example of a Bronsted-Lowry base, noting that it accepts a proton but does not dissociate hydroxide ions in water, thus not qualifying as an Arrhenius base.
  • Another participant introduces the concept of Lewis acids and bases, questioning the relevance of the Bronsted-Lowry and Arrhenius definitions.
  • A further reply reiterates the Lewis definition, stating that ammonia can also be classified as a Lewis base due to its ability to donate a pair of electrons. This participant also mentions that NH3 is considered amphoteric and can autoionize.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus, as there are competing views regarding the definitions and classifications of ammonia in the context of Bronsted-Lowry and Arrhenius theories.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes varying interpretations of acid-base definitions and the implications of ammonia's behavior in different contexts, such as its amphoteric nature and autoionization.

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Could someone give and example of a substance that is a Bronsted-Lowry base, but not an Arrhenius base..
 
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Ammonia (NH3)

Accepts a proton (Bronsted-Lowry), yet does not disassociate hydroxide ions into water (not Arrhenius)
 
no think about Lewis acids/bases
 
astro_kat said:
no think about Lewis acids/bases

Lewis bases are defined as being able to donate a pair of electrons, ammonia also falls into this category... is that what you mean?

NH3 is generally regarded as not an Arrhenius base since it autoionizes and is amphoteric:

NH3 + NH3 ⇄ NH4+ + NH2-
 
Last edited:

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