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Deprotonation




Bases used to deprotonate depend on the pKa of the compound. Where the proton is not particularly Acidic , and as such, the molecule does not give up its proton easily, a base stronger than the commonly known Hydroxide s are required. Hydride s are one of the many types of powerful deprotonating agents. Common hydrides used are Sodium Hydride and Potassium Hydride . These bases are so powerful because the hydride forms Hydrogen Gas when the proton from the other molecule is removed. However, the production of hydrogen also means that deprotonation using agents that release hydrogen are dangerous and should be done in an Inert Atmosphere (e.g. Nitrogen ) as water is a source of protons that is present in the air around us all the time and may react with the hydride instead of the desired molecule or may set on fire.

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