Question

Give reactions to support the amphoteric nature of zinc.

Answer 1

Zinc shows an amphoteric nature because it reacts with both strong acids and strong alkalis to liberate hydrogen gas:

1. Reaction with an Acid (Acting as a Base):

\[\ce{Zn + 2HCl -> ZnCl2 + H2 ^}\]

2. Reaction with an Alkali (Acting as an Acid):

\[\ce{Zn + 2NaOH -> Na2ZnO2 + H2 ^}\]