NEETChemistryd and f Block Elements
Which of the following transition metal oxides dissolves in both aqueous HCl and aqueous NaOH ?
Options
- ACrO ₃
- BMnO
- CMn ₂ O ₇
- DV ₂ O ₅
Correct answer
D. V ₂ O ₅
Step-by-step solution
The ability of an oxide to dissolve in both aqueous acids (like HCl ) and aqueous alkalis (like NaOH ) indicates its amphoteric nature. In transition metals, the acid-base character of oxides depends on the oxidation state of the metal. Lower oxidation states are generally basic, while higher oxidation states are acidic. Intermediate oxidation states often show amphoteric behaviour. V ₂ O ₅ is an amphoteric oxide (though mainly acidic). It dissolves in aqueous alkalis to give VO ₄³⁻ salts and in acids to give VO ₂^