What happens when an acid reacts with a metal oxide?

The correct answer is A salt and water are formed.

Key Points

• When an acid reacts with a metal oxide, the reaction typically results in the formation of a salt and water.
• Metal oxides are basic in nature, and acids are acidic, resulting in a neutralization reaction.
• The general reaction is: Acid + Metal Oxide → Salt + Water.
• An example of such a reaction is: 2HCl + CuO → CuCl₂ + H₂O, where copper chloride (a salt) and water are formed.
• This reaction demonstrates that metal oxides act as basic oxides, combining with acids to neutralize their properties.

Additional Information

• Metal Oxides: These are compounds formed when metals react with oxygen, typically exhibiting basic properties (e.g., CuO, MgO).
• Neutralization Reaction: A chemical reaction where an acid reacts with a base (or basic oxide) to produce salt and water.
• Acids: Substances that release hydrogen ions (H⁺) in aqueous solutions and are characterized by a sour taste and ability to react with bases.
• Basic Oxides vs. Amphoteric Oxides: Basic oxides (e.g., Na₂O) react with acids, while amphoteric oxides (e.g., Al₂O₃) can react with both acids and bases.
• Real-World Applications: Neutralization reactions are widely used in industries, such as treating acidic soil using lime (CaO) or neutralizing acidic waste from factories.