Soft Acid
| Also Known As | Class B Lewis acid, polarizable Lewis acid, HSAB soft acid |
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What is Soft Acid?
In HSAB theory, a Lewis acid that is large, has low positive charge or zero charge, and is highly polarizable. Soft acids prefer to bond with soft bases. Examples include Cu⁺, Ag⁺, Au⁺, Hg²⁺, and Pt²⁺. They prefer thiolate (S) donors over hard oxygen donors.
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
In HSAB theory, a Lewis acid that is large, has low positive charge or zero charge, and is highly polarizable. Soft acids prefer to bond with soft bases. Examples include Cu⁺, Ag⁺, Au⁺, Hg²⁺, and Pt²⁺. They prefer thiolate (S) donors over hard oxygen donors.
HSAB theory using soft acid concept guides ligand selection in coordination chemistry and catalyst design. Soft acid metals like platinum are used as anticancer drugs (cisplatin). Understanding soft acid character predicts heavy metal toxicity through binding to biological soft bases like sulfur in …
Many soft acids are toxic heavy metal ions (mercury, lead, cadmium) that bind irreversibly to biological molecules. Platinum compounds used in chemotherapy have significant side effects requiring careful medical management.