Why is calcium oxide called a basic oxide?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Because it can react with acids to form salt and water
The defining chemical behaviour of a basic oxide is its reaction with an acid to produce salt and water. Calcium oxide is a metal oxide and reacts with hydrochloric acid, for example: CaO + 2HCl → CaCl₂ + H₂O. It can also react with water to form calcium hydroxide, an alkali. Acid rain and red litmus indicate acidic behaviour, and calcium is a metal, so those distractors are incorrect. Thus A is correct.
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What is the correct answer to this question?
Because it can react with acids to form salt and water
Why is this the correct answer?
The defining chemical behaviour of a basic oxide is its reaction with an acid to produce salt and water. Calcium oxide is a metal oxide and reacts with hydrochloric acid, for example: CaO + 2HCl → CaCl₂ + H₂O. It can also react with water to form calcium hydroxide, an alkali. Acid rain and red litmus indicate acidic behaviour, and calcium is a metal, so those distractors are incorrect. Thus A is correct.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Acids, Bases, and Salts.
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