Structure of Orthoboric Acid
The chemical formula of orthoboric acid is BH3O3. It has a trigonal structure. In this configuration, three oxygen atoms adopt a trigonal planar arrangement around the boron. The B-O bond length measures 136 pm, while the O-H bond is 97 pm.
Two crystalline forms of orthoboric acid exist: triclinic and hexagonal. Crystalline boric acid comprises layers of B(OH)3 molecules, interconnected by hydrogen bonds with a length of 272 pm. The separation between two consecutive layers measures 318 pm. The hexagonal form is thermodynamically more stable and can be obtained with a special preparation method.
Triclinic and Hexagonal Forms of Orthoboric Acid.
Orthoboric Acid
Orthoboric Acid, also known as boric acid, is a mild Lewis acid of Boron. Orthoboric Acid is found in volcanic areas and various minerals. It appears as a white crystalline solid and has a trigonal planar structure. Orthoboric Acid serves diverse purposes, from being a pesticide and food preservative to having applications in medicine and the manufacturing industry.
This article provides an overview of its properties, molecular structure, preparation methods, reactions and performance as compared to borax. It also delves into the uses of orthoboric acid, emphasizing its role as a generally safe pesticide while highlighting precautions due to its potential toxicity.
Table of Content
- What is Orthoboric Acid?
- Properties of Orthoboric Acid
- Structure of Orthoboric Acid
- Orthoboric Acid Reactions
- Orthoboric Acid vs Borax
- Uses of Orthoboric Acid