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Lewis acid-base theory

Lewis acid-base theory describes how certain substances interact through electron pairs. A Lewis acid is an electron pair acceptor, often a molecule or atom with an empty orbital to hold additional electrons. A Lewis base is an electron pair donor, providing electrons to form a bond. When they react, the Lewis base shares its electron pair with the Lewis acid, creating a new chemical bond. This theory broadens the definition of acids and bases beyond proton transfer, encompassing a wider range of chemical reactions and interactions based on electron movement.