Question

$B(OH{)}_3+NaOH\rightleftharpoons NaB{O}_2+Na[B(OH{)}_4{]}^{-}+H_{2}O$

How can the reaction above be made to proceed in the forward reaction?

• A. Addition of cis-1,2-diol
• B. Addition of borax
• C. Addition of trans-1,2-diol
• D. Addition of $N{a}_{2}HP{O}_4$

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Addition of cis-1,2-diol

In the reaction,

$B(OH{)}_3+NaOH\rightleftharpoons NaB{O}_2+Na[B(OH{)}_4{]}^{-}+H_{2}O$

We see that there is an equilibrium. When cis-1,2-diols are added to the reaction flask, it consumes $\left[B\right(OH{)}_4{]}^{-}$ and thus drives the reaction in the forward direction.