Question

Which of the following oxides is most acidic in nature ?

• A. BeO
• B. MgO
• C. CaO
• D. BaO

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

 The given question is about identifying the most acidic oxide among the provided options. The options are:

1. BeO
2. MgO
3. CaO
4. BaO

To determine which oxide is the most acidic, we need to understand the acidic nature of metal oxides.

Explanation:

Oxides can be classified as acidic, basic, or amphoteric based on their behavior with acids and bases. In general:

• Metal oxides are typically basic.
• Non-metal oxides tend to be acidic.
• Some metal oxides, particularly those from elements that fall into a certain range on the periodic table, can exhibit amphoteric behavior, meaning they can act as both acids and bases.

Now, looking at the options provided, all are oxides of Group 2 elements (alkaline earth metals). The acid-base behavior of these oxides generally follows this trend:

\(BeO\) (amphoteric) < \(MgO\) < \(CaO\) < \(BaO\) (basic)

Among them, beryllium oxide (BeO) is special because it is amphoteric. It can react with both acids and bases, showing both acidic and basic properties. Hence, it is the most acidic among the options though it is not strictly "acidic." It contrasts with the other oxides like MgO, CaO, and BaO, which are predominantly basic.

Conclusion:

Thus, the answer is BeO because it has amphoteric properties, making it the most acidic oxide among the given options.

Correct Answer: BeO