Question:

Which of the following is an amphoteric hydroxide?

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Beryllium shows anomalous behaviour, and its hydroxide reacts with both acids and bases.
Updated On: Nov 12, 2026
  • \(\text{Mg(OH)}_{2}\)
  • \(\text{Be(OH)}_{2}\)
  • \(\text{Sr(OH)}_{2}\)
  • \(\text{Ca(OH)}_{2}\)
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
An amphoteric hydroxide reacts with both acids and strong bases.

Step 2: Trend in group 2
The basic character of the hydroxides increases down the group. \(\text{Mg(OH)}_2\), \(\text{Ca(OH)}_2\) and \(\text{Sr(OH)}_2\) are basic.

Step 3: Beryllium
Beryllium is small and highly polarising, so \(\text{Be(OH)}_2\) is amphoteric: \(\text{Be(OH)}_2+2\text{HCl}\rightarrow\text{BeCl}_2+2\text{H}_2\text{O}\) and \(\text{Be(OH)}_2+2\text{OH}^{-}\rightarrow\left[\text{Be(OH)}_4\right]^{2-}\).

Step 4: Compare the options
The amphoteric hydroxide is \(\text{Be(OH)}_2\), option (B).

Final Answer:
Beryllium hydroxide is the amphoteric hydroxide. \[ \boxed{\text{(B) }\text{Be(OH)}_{2}} \]
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