Oxide
What is Oxide?
An oxide is a binary compound of oxygen with another element. Metal oxides are generally basic and react with water to form metal hydroxides; non-metal oxides are generally acidic and react with water to form oxyacids. Amphoteric oxides (e.g., Al₂O₃, ZnO) can act as both acid and base. Oxides are widespread in nature — silica (SiO₂) and alumina (Al₂O₃) are major components of Earth's crust.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
An oxide is a binary compound of oxygen with another element. Metal oxides are generally basic and react with water to form metal hydroxides; non-metal oxides are generally acidic and react with water to form oxyacids. Amphoteric oxides (e.g., Al₂O₃, ZnO) can act as both acid and base. Oxides are widespread in nature — silica (SiO₂) and alumina (Al₂O₃) are major components of Earth's crust.