Which of the following oxides is most acidic in nature?
- MgO
- BeO
- BaO
- CaO
Answer
(2) BeO
Solution
As per NCERT, BeO is amphoteric, while the oxides of the other alkaline earth metals are basic.
Basic character: BeO < MgO < CaO < BaO (metallic character increases down the group).
∴ BeO (amphoteric, i.e. it also behaves as an acid) is the most acidic oxide.
Answer: (2)