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Which answer best defines a Lewis base?

  1. Electron-pair acceptor

  2. Proton acceptor

  3. Electron-pair donor

  4. Proton donor

The correct answer is: Electron-pair donor

A Lewis base is defined as an electron-pair donor. This concept comes from the Lewis theory of bonding, which describes acids and bases in terms of electron transfer rather than protons. In this context, a Lewis base is a substance that can donate a pair of electrons to form a covalent bond with a Lewis acid. This electron donation is crucial in many chemical reactions and interactions, particularly in organic chemistry and coordination chemistry. By donating an electron pair, a Lewis base can facilitate reactions in which new bonds are formed, or existing bonds are broken and reformed. This characteristic distinguishes Lewis bases from other definitions of acids and bases, such as Bronsted-Lowry acids and bases, which are defined by their ability to donate or accept protons instead of electron pairs.