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Definition of Amphoteric Oxide

By , About.com Guide

Definition: An amphoteric oxide is an oxide that can act as either an acid or base in a reaction.
Examples:
Al2O3 is an amphoteric oxide. When reacted with HCl, it acts as a base to form the salt AlCl3. When reacted with NaOH, it acts as an acid to form NaAlO2.

Typically, oxides of medium electronegativity are amphoteric.

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