H3BO3 isA.monobasic and a weak Lewis acidB.monobasic and a weak Bronsted acidC.monobasic and a strong Lewis acidD.tribasic and a weak Bronsted acid

To analyze the options given for H₃BO₃ (Boric acid), we will evaluate each statement regarding its properties as an acid.

1. Monobasic and a weak Lewis acid: Boric acid can indeed act as a Lewis acid because it can accept electron pairs. However, it is not monobasic in the traditional sense, as it does not donate protons in the same way that strong acids do.

2. Monobasic and a weak Bronsted acid: Boric acid can be considered a weak Bronsted acid since it can donate a proton (H⁺) under certain conditions, but it is primarily considered as a weak acid because it does not readily dissociate in solution.

3. Monobasic and a strong Lewis acid: While it can act as a Lewis acid, it's not classified as a strong Lewis acid. Boron, in boric acid, can accept electron pairs, but the acidity is relatively weak compared to stronger Lewis acids.

4. Tribasic and a weak Bronsted acid: This statement is not applicable because H₃BO₃ is monobasic, not tribasic.

Conclusion

The most accurate description is B. monobasic and a weak Bronsted acid. Boric acid is primarily a weak Bronsted acid because it can donate a proton but does so weakly in aqueous solutions.