Metal oxides can act as bases, but not all metal oxides are considered bases. Some metal oxides, such as magnesium oxide (MgO), are considered basic because they react with water to form metal hydroxides (Mg(OH)2) that have a pH greater than 7. However, some metal oxides like aluminum oxide (Al2O3) are amphoteric, which means they can react as both acids and bases depending on the conditions.
Metal hydroxides, on the other hand, are considered alkalis because they dissolve in water to form hydroxide ions (OH-) that can neutralize acids and have a pH greater than 7. Examples of metal hydroxides that are alkalis include sodium hydroxide (NaOH), potassium hydroxide (KOH), and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2).
to clarify:
metal oxides = bases
metal hydroxides = alkalis?
1 answer
1 answer