Chapter 15 - Sections 15.1-15.12 - Exercises - Problems by Topic - Page 748: 125b

Lewis acid: $Zn^{2+}$ Lewis base: $NH_3$

1. Identify if each compound can act as a Lewis acid, base or both. $Zn^{2+}$: It is a cation of a highly positive small metal, therefore, it can act only as a Lewis acid. (Because it has empty orbitals) $NH_3$: It is a Lewis base, because the nitrogen has a lone pair of electrons, which it is capable of donating, making it a Lewis base. 2. Therefore, there is only option for this reaction: $Zn^{2+}$ as an acid and $NH_3$ as a base;