Question

Write down the changes that will be seen in the instance and explain the reason behind them.

Zinc oxide was added to dilute HCl and zinc oxide was added to dilute NaOH. 

Answer 1

When zinc oxide is added to HCl, zinc chloride and water are produced. In this reaction, zinc oxide is basic, which proves that it is amphoteric. When zinc oxide is mixed with NaOH, sodium zincate (Na₂ZnO₂) and water are produced. In this reaction, zinc oxide is acidic, due to which it is amphoteric, as it shows both acidic and basic properties.