An example of an amphoteric oxide is

An example of an amphoteric oxide is Al₂O₃ (aluminum oxide).

Amphoteric oxides are special because they can act as both acidic and basic oxides. This means they can react with both acids and bases to form salts and water, showcasing their dual behavior.

Here is how it works:

• Reacts with Acids: When aluminum oxide reacts with an acid, such as hydrochloric acid (HCl), it behaves like a base and forms a salt. For example, it will react to form aluminum chloride and water:
  Al₂O₃ + 6 HCl → 2 AlCl₃ + 3 H₂O.


• Reacts with Bases: When it reacts with a strong base, like sodium hydroxide (NaOH), it acts like an acid and also forms a salt and water. An example reaction might be:
  Al₂O₃ + 2 NaOH + 3 H₂O → 2 NaAl(OH)₄.

In contrast, oxides like CuO (copper(II) oxide) are basic oxides, and K₂O (potassium oxide) is a basic oxide as well. They don't exhibit both acidic and basic properties.

Therefore, the amphoteric nature of Al₂O₃ is what distinguishes it from common oxides that are strictly acidic or basic. This property is crucial in various chemical processes and applications.