Question

Which among the following oxides is amphoteric in nature?

• A. \( \text{Cl}_2\text{O}_7 \)
• B. \( \text{CaO} \)
• C. \( \text{B}_2\text{O}_3 \)
• D. \( \text{SnO} \)

Hint:

Amphoteric oxides react with both acids and bases, such as \( \text{SnO} \) (tin(II) oxide) and \( \text{Al}_2\text{O}_3 \) (aluminium oxide).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding amphoteric oxides.
Amphoteric oxides are oxides that can react with both acids and bases to form salts and water. Common examples include oxides of metals like aluminium and zinc.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) \( \text{Cl}_2\text{O}_7 \): Incorrect, this is an acidic oxide and does not exhibit amphoteric behavior.
(B) \( \text{CaO} \): Incorrect, calcium oxide is a basic oxide, not amphoteric.
(C) \( \text{B}_2\text{O}_3 \): Incorrect, boron trioxide is an acidic oxide, not amphoteric.
(D) \( \text{SnO} \): Correct — Tin(II) oxide is amphoteric and can react with both acids and bases.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (D) \( \text{SnO} \).