Question:easy

Zinc oxide is best described as which type of oxide?

Show Hint

Check whether zinc oxide reacts only with acids, only with bases, or with both.
Updated On: Jul 16, 2026
  • Acidic
  • Basic
  • Neutral
  • Amphoteric
Show Solution

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

An easy way to check this type of question is to test the oxide against both an acid and a base.

  • With acid: \(ZnO + 2HCl \rightarrow ZnCl_2 + H_2O\). Zinc oxide acts as a base here.
  • With base: \(ZnO + 2NaOH \rightarrow Na_2ZnO_2 + H_2O\). Zinc oxide acts as an acid here.

An oxide that reacts with both acids and bases and neutralizes them is called amphoteric. Aluminium oxide and zinc oxide are the two most common amphoteric oxides taught at this level. So option D is correct.

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