How Do Lewis Acids and Bases Interact in Catalysis?
Lewis acids are electron-pair acceptors, while Lewis bases are electron-pair donors. In catalysis, Lewis acids can stabilize negative charges by accepting electron pairs, which can facilitate bond formation or breakage. Lewis bases, on the other hand, can donate electron pairs to stabilize positive charges. This interaction is particularly important in acid-base catalysis, where the catalyst acts either as a Lewis acid or base to enhance the reaction rate.
