Question

How we can prove metallic oxides are basic and non- metallic oxides are acidic?

Answer 1

Metal oxides are basic in nature because they react with water to form strong bases while non metallic oxides react with water to form acids.

Eg:-

◎ When non metallic oxide for example SO2 dissolved in water it produces sulphurous acid. It is acidic.

SO2 + H2O → H2SO3


◎ When metallic oxide reacts with water it produces Metal hydroxides. It is basic.

Na2O + H2O → 2NaOH