What are the differences between Brønsted–Lowry model and the Lewis model for acids and bases?

1 Answer
Apr 17, 2015

The Arrhenius Theory of acids and bases

  • Acids are substances that produce hydrogen ions in solution.
  • Bases are substances that produce hydroxide ions in solution.

Neutralization happens because hydrogen ions and hydroxide ions react to produce water.

The Brønsted-Lowry Theory of acids and bases

  • An acid is a proton (hydrogen ion) donor.
  • A base is a proton (hydrogen ion) acceptor.

Very important - the Brønsted-Lowry theory does not go against the Arrhenius theory in any way, it just adds to it.

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The Lewis Theory of acids and bases

This theory extends well beyond the things you normally think of as acids and bases.

  • An acid is an electron pair acceptor.
  • A base is an electron pair donor.

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