What is a borane and how is it formed?

A borane is a compound containing boron and hydrogen, formed through various chemical reactions.

Boranes are compounds that contain boron and hydrogen atoms. They are typically formed through reactions between boron compounds and hydrogen gas, or through reactions between boron hydrides and other compounds. Boranes are highly reactive and unstable, and can be used in a variety of chemical reactions.

One of the most common boranes is diborane, which is a colourless gas with a pungent odour. Diborane is formed through the reaction of boron trichloride with lithium aluminium hydride. It is used in the production of boron compounds, as well as in the synthesis of organic compounds.

Another important borane is sodium borohydride, which is a white crystalline powder. It is formed through the reaction of sodium hydride with boron trifluoride etherate. Sodium borohydride is used as a reducing agent in a variety of chemical reactions, and is also used in the production of boron compounds.

Boranes have a wide range of applications in chemistry, including in the production of semiconductors, as catalysts in chemical reactions, and as reducing agents. However, due to their highly reactive nature, boranes must be handled with care and caution.