In Na2[Pt(CN)4], the Lewis acid is which species?

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Multiple Choice

In Na2[Pt(CN)4], the Lewis acid is which species?

A Lewis acid is a species that accepts an electron pair. In this complex, the cyanide ligands donate lone pairs to the platinum center, forming coordinate bonds. The platinum ion (Pt2+) is the electron-pair acceptor, so it acts as the Lewis acid. The cyanide ligands are Lewis bases, and the sodium ions are just counterions balancing charge. Hence, the Lewis acid is the Pt2+ center.

A Lewis acid is a species that accepts an electron pair. In this complex, the cyanide ligands donate lone pairs to the platinum center, forming coordinate bonds. The platinum ion (Pt2+) is the electron-pair acceptor, so it acts as the Lewis acid. The cyanide ligands are Lewis bases, and the sodium ions are just counterions balancing charge. Hence, the Lewis acid is the Pt2+ center.

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