Question

Explain the nature of zinc oxide with the help of the reactions.

Answer 1

Zinc oxide is an amphoteric oxide which shows both basic and acidic properties.

ZnO + 2HCl → ZnCl₂ + H₂O (basic nature)
                  Zinc chloride

ZnO + 2NaOH → Na₂ZnO₂ + H₂O (acidic nature)
                       Sodium zincate