Question

Which one of these is the most acidic oxide?

• A. MnO (Manganese (II) oxide)
• B. Mn₂O₃ (Manganese (III) oxide)
• C. Mn₂O₇ (Manganese (VII) oxide)
• D. MnO₂ (Manganese (IV) oxide)

Hint:

Remember: The higher the oxidation state of a metal in its oxide, the more acidic the oxide is. Mn\textsuperscript{+7} in Mn\textsubscript{2}O\textsubscript{7} makes it a highly acidic oxide.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understand oxidation states and oxide nature
Oxides of elements, particularly transition metals like manganese, can exhibit varying acid-base properties depending on the oxidation state:

• Lower oxidation states ⇒ Basic or amphoteric oxides
• Higher oxidation states ⇒ More acidic oxides

Step 2: Assign oxidation states to given compounds

• MnO: Mn is in +2 oxidation state ⇒ basic oxide
• Mn₂O₃: Mn is in +3 oxidation state ⇒ weakly basic/amphoteric
• MnO₂: Mn is in +4 oxidation state ⇒ amphoteric
• Mn₂O₇: Mn is in +7 oxidation state ⇒ strongly acidic

Step 3: Conclusion
Mn₂O₇ has the highest oxidation state of +7 for manganese. Hence, it is the most acidic oxide among the options given. \[ \boxed{\text{Mn}_2\text{O}_7 \text{ is the most acidic oxide}} \]