Question

A metal X reacts with oxygen gas to form an amphoteric oxide. Identify the metal. Recall that amphoteric oxides show both acidic and basic behaviour.
$X+O_2\to \text{Amphoteric Oxide}$

• A. Na (Sodium)
• B. Al (Aluminium)
• C. C (Carbon)
• D. K (Potassium)

Answer 1

The correct option is B Al (Aluminium)

Aluminium on reaction with oxygen forms $A{l}_2{O}_3$. This metal oxide shows both acidic as well as basic behaviour. Such metal oxides which react with both acids as well as bases to produce salts and water are known as amphoteric oxides.