5d. Types of Oxides

Question 1

Basic Oxides

Answer 1

Basic oxides:

• Are oxides of metals (e.g. Na₂O, MgO, CuO, Fe₂O₃)
• If soluble, dissolve and react with water to produce alkalis (e.g. NaOH)
• React with acids to produce salt and water only (neutralisation)

Question 2

Acidic Oxides

Answer 2

Acidic oxides:

• Are oxides of non-metals (e.g. CO₂, SO₂, SO₃, NO₂, P₄O₁₀, SiO₂)
• Usually dissolve and react with water to produce acids (e.g. H₂CO₃, H₂SO₃, H₂SO₄, HNO₃, H₃PO₄, H₂SiO₃)
• React with alkalis to produce salt and water only (neutrailsation)

Question 3

Amphoteric Oxides

Answer 3

Amphoteric oxdies:

• Are oxides of metals (e.g. ZnO, Al₂O₃, PbO, BeO)
• Do not dissolve in water
• Can behave as acidic oxides or basic oxides
• React with acids or alkalis to produce a salt and water only (neutralisation)

Question 4

Neutral Oxides

Answer 4

Neutral oxides:

• Are oxides of non-metals (e.g. H₂O, CO, NO, N₂O)
• Do not dissolve in water
• Do not react with acids or alkalis