Question

Which of the following is correct regarding Boron and Silicon oxides?

• A. Both are basic oxides
• B. Both are amphoteric oxides
• C. Both are acidic oxides
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Both are acidic oxides

Most common oxide of boron is $B_2{O}_3$ . It is an anhyride of boric acid

$2H_{3}B{O}_3\to B_2{O}_3+3H_{2}O$ so as anhydride it acts as acidic oxide . Further it reacts with water to give $H_{3}B{O}_3$

silicon oxides doesn't react with acids.

It reacts with strong bases it acts as weak acid

For exampe:- In extraction process in blast furnance $Si{O}_2$ reacts with $CaO$ to form slag.

$Si{O}_2+CaO\to CaSi{O}_3$

acid base