Question

CuO is ______ in nature, whereas Cu₂O is ______ in nature.

Answer 1

CuO is amphoteric in nature, whereas Cu₂O is basic in nature.

Explanation:

CuO (copper(II) oxide) shows both acidic and basic behavior; it reacts with acids to give Cu(II) salts and with strong bases to form cuprate-type species, so it is amphoteric. Cu₂O (copper(I) oxide) behaves like a basic oxide: it reacts with acids to give copper(I) salts and does not show the same tendency to react with bases, so it is classed as basic.