Weak Base - Classifications, Examples, Uses, FAQs

Classification on The Basis of Strength:

Strong Base: A strong base is one that totally dissolves in water. For example, KOH, NaOH, and so forth. Weak bases: This substance does not entirely dissolve in water. For example, NH₃, Zn(OH)₂ When dissolved in solutions, weak bases are described as basic compounds that do not entirely breakdown into their constituent ions. As a result, when the weak bases is dissolved in a solution, a portion of it dissociates into hydroxide anions and the appropriate conjugate acid, while rest stays undissociated inside solution. It's vital to remember that weak bases conjugate acid is usually always weak acid. Similarly, a weak acid and weak base's conjugate base will operate as a weak bases.

The following form of equilibrium occurs when a weak bases is dissolved in water:

B + H₂O ⇌ BH⁺ + OH^–

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Weak Bases Examples

Ammonia (NH₃)

The chemical compound ammonia has the formula NH₃. It's a weak bases that exists as a colourless gas under ordinary temperature and pressure settings. The unpleasant odour of this gas is well-known. It's worth noting, though, that only small portion of dissolved ammonia dissociates into these ions.

Trimethylamine (N(CH3)3)

TMA stands for trimethylamine, which is weak bases with molecular formula N(CH₃)₃. It can also be made by combining paraformaldehyde along with ammonium chloride in a process.

Pyridine (C5H5N)

Pyridine is pyridine-like organic molecule with formula C₅H₅N. This chemical compound is weak bases with heterocyclic structure. Pyridine has a structure similar to benzene, with exception that one of the methine groups is substituted with single nitrogen atom.

Aniline

Organic molecules with the chemical formula C₆H₅NH₂ are known as anilines. It's used to make rubber chemicals and items including automobile tyres, balloons, and gloves in the rubber industry. It is a weak bases that generates an anilinium ion when treated with strong acids. It's utilised in pesticides and fungicides in agriculture, as well as agricultural chemicals, synthetic colours, antioxidants, herbicides, varnishes, and explosives.

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Example of Weak Acid

Formic Acid

One of the most basic carboxylic acids is formic acid, commonly known as methanoic acid. HCOOH or CH₂O₂ is the chemical formula for this substance. Formic acid is a weak acid that is found naturally inside the bodies of some ants. Formic acid is a colourless liquid that exists under typical temperature and pressure conditions (which sometimes evolves fumes).

Formic acid is reported to have a strong and penetrating unpleasant odour when it is liquid. Several additional organic solvents, such as acetone, glycerol, ethanol, and methanol, create miscible mixes with formic acid. Furthermore, it is known that this molecule is somewhat soluble in aromatic chemicals like benzene and toluene.

Uses of Weak Base

Ammonium Hydroxide

Fertilizers, rayon, plastics, and colours are all made from it.

In a chemical laboratory, it is employed as a reagent.

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NCERT Chemistry Notes:

• NCERT Notes Class 11th Chemistry
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• NCERT Notes For All Subjects