Question

An element E forms an oxide E₂O. An aqueous solution of E₂O turns red litmus paper blue.

1. What is the nature of the oxide E₂O?
2. State whether element E is a metal or a non-metal.
3. Give one example of an element like E.

Answer 1

1. The oxide E₂O is basic in nature because it turns red litmus paper blue.
2. The element E is a metal because Most metallic oxides are basic and form alkaline solutions when dissolved in water.
3. Sodium (Na) is a perfect example. Sodium forms sodium oxide (Na₂O), which dissolves in water to form sodium hydroxide (NaOH), a strong base that turns red litmus blue. Potassium (K) is also a valid example.