JAMB Chemistry 1978 Question 3

Question 3

Hydrogen, Oxygen and Oxides

Zinc oxide is a

  1. A.basic oxide
  2. B.acidic oxide
  3. C.amphoteric oxide
  4. D.neutral oxide
  5. E.reactive oxide
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (amphoteric oxide)

Explanation

Zinc oxide reacts with both acids and alkalis (forming zincates), so it is amphoteric.