A structural model for Lewis acids and bases. An analysis of the structural chemistry of the acetate and trifluoroacetate ions

In the solid state acetate and trifluoroacetate ions show a variety of internal and external bonding geometries that can be directly related to the differences between the two anions and to differences in the Lewis-acid strengths of the counter ions. The structures and crystaline environments of 38 such anions have been examined. The results are interpreted in terms of a model of acid and base strength based on bond valences (bond strengths) …