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Chapter 15: Problem 112

Which of the following is the stronger base: \(\mathrm{NF}_{3}\) or \(\mathrm{NH}_{3} ?\) (Hint: \(\mathrm{F}\) is more electronegative than \(\left.\mathrm{H} .\right)\)

Short Answer

Expert verified
\(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\) is the stronger base than \(\mathrm{NF}_{3}\).

Step by step solution

01

Understand Base Strength

A base is a chemical species that donates electrons, usually forming a bond in the process. The ability to donate electrons, and therefore be a strong base, generally depends on how 'available' the electrons are. Electron pair availability is reduced if it is more tightly held, or 'pulled,' by an electronegative atom.
02

Apply Electronegativity Concept

Electronegativity refers to the ability of an atom in a molecule to attract electrons to itself. The hint provided indicates that fluorine (F) is more electronegative than hydrogen (H). Therefore, the electron pair that a base like \(\mathrm{NF}_{3}\) or \(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\) might donate is more tightly held in \(\mathrm{NF}_{3}\) because of fluorine's higher electronegativity.
03

Establish Base Strength

Since the electron-pair is more tightly held in \(\mathrm{NF}_{3}\) because of the higher electronegativity of fluorine, it's less likely to be donated than the electron pair in \(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\). So, \(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\) is the stronger base because it donates its electron pair more readily.

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