Amphoteric Oxides — Exam Paper
Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry 0620 • 15 Questions • Sections A, B & C
📋 Reference: Key Reactions
Define the term amphoteric oxide.
State what is meant by the term 'basic oxide'.
Define the term 'acidic oxide'.
Aluminium oxide is described as amphoteric. Explain what this means in terms of its reactions.
Using ZnO as an example, explain the dual chemical behaviour of an amphoteric oxide.
Name two metals that form amphoteric oxides.
Write the chemical formula for the amphoteric oxide of zinc.
Write the chemical formula for the amphoteric oxide of aluminium.
From the list below, identify which oxides are amphoteric: Na₂O, ZnO, CO₂, Al₂O₃, MgO.
Explain why ZnO is classified differently from Na₂O, even though both are metal oxides.
Zinc oxide reacts with hydrochloric acid to form zinc chloride and water. What type of substance is zinc oxide acting as in this reaction? Write the balanced equation.
Zinc oxide reacts with sodium hydroxide solution. What type of substance is zinc oxide acting as in this reaction? Write the balanced equation.
Aluminium oxide reacts with dilute sulfuric acid. (a) What role does Al₂O₃ play? (b) Write the balanced equation including state symbols.
Aluminium oxide reacts with concentrated sodium hydroxide solution. (a) What role does Al₂O₃ play? (b) Name the product formed (other than water). (c) Write a balanced equation.
A student says: 'Zinc oxide is a basic oxide because it is a metal oxide.' Evaluate this statement, using chemical equations to support your answer.
⚠️ Examiner's Top 3 Traps — Amphoteric
Incomplete definition: Writing "reacts with acids" only scores 1/2. Must say "reacts with BOTH acids AND bases."
Wrong product (NaOH reaction): Product of ZnO + NaOH is sodium zincate (Na₂ZnO₂), NOT ZnCl₂.
Forgetting state symbols: Always include (s), (aq), (l) — missing symbols costs marks in Paper 4.
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