Question

Which of the following oxides is acidic in nature?

• A. $I{n}_2{O}_3$
• B. $B_2{O}_3$
• C. $A{l}_2{O}_3$
• D. $G{a}_2{O}_3$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $B_2{O}_3$

Acidic oxides are those oxides which combine with water to produce an acidic solution.

Generally, oxides of non-metals are acidic in nature while oxides of metals are basic.

Down the group, the metallic character of elements increases due to decrease in electronegativity.

Down the group, acidic character of oxides decreases or basic character of oxides increases.

Among oxides of group 13, $I{n}_2{O}_3$ is the most basic oxide, and $B_2{O}_3$ i.e. Boron oxide is most acidic in nature.
Boron oxide on hydrolysis produces orthoboric acid.

$B_2{O}_3\left(s\right)+3H_{2}O\left(l\right)\to 2H_{3}B{O}_3\left(aq\right)$