Amphoteric Oxide
An amphoteric oxide is an oxide that reacts with both acids and bases.
Practice This ConceptMain explanation
Teacher explanation
Amphoteric oxides show a special nature because they can behave as acidic or basic oxides depending on the substance they react with. Zinc oxide and aluminium oxide are important examples. This property is often tested using reaction comparison questions.
Example
Zinc oxide reacts with both hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide.
Simple analogy
Two-sided reaction means amphoteric nature.
Common confusion
Students often call every metal oxide basic, but some oxides like zinc oxide and aluminium oxide are amphoteric.
Exam tip
If an oxide reacts with both acid and base, amphoteric is the correct idea.
Answer writing and exam use
1-mark use
Write the exact meaning of amphoteric oxide in one clean line.
2-mark use
Define amphoteric oxide and add one example or condition.
3-mark use
Explain amphoteric oxide, show the method or example, and mention the common mistake.
Practice this concept with focused MCQs
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