Orthoboric Acid

1. Why is Orthoboric Acid weak?

Orthoboric Acid is classified as a weak acid since it cannot produce its own hydrogen ions. The boric acid takes hydroxide ions from a water molecule and releases ions.

2. What is the Difference between Orthoboric Acid and Metaboric Acid?

These acids differ mostly in their molecular formula and structure. Orthoboric acid has a trigonal planar structure and is only present in molecular form, whereas metaboric acid is present in two forms: molecular and chained. On heating orthoboric acid dehydrates to form metaboric acid.

3. Why Orthoboric Acid is not Protonic Acid?

Orthoboric Acid does not donate hydrogen ions (H⁺) so is considered not a protonic acid but it can accept electrons from so it is a Lewis Acid and form complexes with water molecules.

4. What is the Formula of Orthoboric Acid?

The molecular formula of orthoboric acid is BH₃O₃ also written as B(OH)₃.

5. Does Orthoboric Acid kill Fleas?

Yes, Orthoboric acid can kill fleas.

6. What happens when Orthoboric Acid is heated?

Orthoboric acid undergoes three step hydration when heated, which is known as pyrolysis. When heated above 140°C orthoboric acid yields metaboric acid (HBO₂) and water. Heating metaboric acid above 180°C eliminates another water molecule forming tetraboric acid, also called pyroboric acid (H₂B₄O₇). Further heating to about 530°C leads to boron trioxide (B₂O₃).

7. Does Orthoboric Acid kill Bed Bugs?

As boric acid appears as a powder or bust, bed bugs will not ingest it as they feed on blood. Hence this is not effective against bed bugs.

8. How to Use Orthoboric Acid?

Orthoboric Acid should be applied on a dry surface only. Make a dilute solution of orthoboric acid to use it.

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.