In the complex [Pt(CN)4]2-, which species acts as a Lewis base?

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Multiple Choice

In the complex [Pt(CN)4]2-, which species acts as a Lewis base?

A Lewis base is a species that donates an electron pair. In the complex [Pt(CN)4]2-, the cyanide ion donates its lone pair from carbon to the platinum center, forming coordinate covalent bonds. The platinum atom then acts as the Lewis acid, accepting those electron pairs to complete its coordination. The sodium ion is a counterion and does not donate electron pairs to the metal, and the whole complex isn’t acting as a base toward another species in this context. Therefore, the cyanide ion is the Lewis base.

A Lewis base is a species that donates an electron pair. In the complex [Pt(CN)4]2-, the cyanide ion donates its lone pair from carbon to the platinum center, forming coordinate covalent bonds. The platinum atom then acts as the Lewis acid, accepting those electron pairs to complete its coordination. The sodium ion is a counterion and does not donate electron pairs to the metal, and the whole complex isn’t acting as a base toward another species in this context. Therefore, the cyanide ion is the Lewis base.

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