Question

A pair of amphoteric oxides is

• A. Al₂O₃, Li₂O
• B. BeO, BO₃
• C. BeO, MgO
• D. BeO, ZnO

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Identifying Amphoteric Oxides

Amphoteric oxides are oxides that can react with both acids and bases to form salts and water. To identify the correct pair of amphoteric oxides from the given options, we need to consider the chemical properties of each oxide.

Options: 

1. Option A: \( \text{BeO} \), \( \text{MgO} \)
   While \( \text{BeO} \) (Beryllium oxide) is amphoteric, \( \text{MgO} \) (Magnesium oxide) is a basic oxide and does not react with bases.
2. Option B: \( \text{BeO} \), \( \text{ZnO} \)
   Both \( \text{BeO} \) (Beryllium oxide) and \( \text{ZnO} \) (Zinc oxide) are amphoteric oxides.
3. Option C: \( \text{Al}_2\text{O}_3 \), \( \text{Li}_2\text{O} \)
   \( \text{Al}_2\text{O}_3 \) (Aluminum oxide) is amphoteric, but \( \text{Li}_2\text{O} \) (Lithium oxide) is a basic oxide and does not react with bases.
4. Option D: \( \text{BeO} \), \( \text{B}_2\text{O}_3 \)
   \( \text{BeO} \) (Beryllium oxide) is amphoteric, but \( \text{B}_2\text{O}_3 \) (Boron trioxide) is an acidic oxide and does not react with acids.

Conclusion:

The correct answer is Option B: \( \text{BeO} \), \( \text{ZnO} \), as both are amphoteric oxides.