Zinc Oxide is a metal oxide. Which of the following term best describes the nature of Zinc Oxide?

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is best described as an amphoteric oxide. Amphoteric oxides are metal oxides that can react with both acids and bases. In the case of zinc oxide, it can neutralize acids to form zinc salts, as well as react with bases to form zincates.

1. Basic Character: ZnO can react with acids. For instance, when zinc oxide is treated with hydrochloric acid (HCl), it produces zinc chloride and water: $\text{ZnO} + 2\text{HCl} \rightarrow \text{ZnCl}_2 + \text{H}_2\text{O}$

2. Acidic Character: On the other hand, ZnO can also react with strong bases. For example, when zinc oxide is treated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in the presence of water, it forms sodium zincate: $\text{ZnO} + 2\text{NaOH} + 2\text{H}_2\text{O} \rightarrow \text{Na}_2\text{Zn(OH)}_4$

This dual ability to react with both acids and bases underlines the amphoteric nature of zinc oxide, making it unique compared to other metal oxides, which may be strictly basic or acidic.

In chemistry, understanding the characteristics of zinc oxide and similar compounds is essential, particularly for applications in materials science, electronics, and chemistry involving catalysis or environmental science.