Question

Which of the following can classified as an amphoteric oxide?

(a) Iron (III) oxide

(b) Zinc oxide

(c) Mercury (II) oxide

(d) Lime

I have been asked this question during an interview.

I want to ask this question from P-Block Elements in division P-Block Elements of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer 1

Right option is (b) Zinc oxide

The best explanation: Zinc oxide is the only amphoteric oxide out of these four. On dissolution in acid like HCl, it acts as a base and forms ZnCl2 salt. On dissolving in base like NaOH, it acts an acid to form sodium zincate, Na2ZnO2.