A metallic oxide which reacts with both HCl and NaOH to give salt and water only can be classified as?

Answer Details

An oxide that reacts with both HCl (hydrochloric acid) and NaOH (sodium hydroxide) to give salt and water only is classified as an amphoteric oxide. Amphoteric oxides are substances that can act as either an acid or a base depending on the reaction conditions. They have the ability to donate or accept a proton (H+) depending on the nature of the other reactant. In the case of HCl, which is an acid, the amphoteric oxide will act as a base and accept the proton to form salt and water. In the case of NaOH, which is a base, the amphoteric oxide will act as an acid and donate a proton to form salt and water. Examples of amphoteric oxides include aluminum oxide (Al2O3) and zinc oxide (ZnO). Therefore, the answer is "an amphoteric oxide".