Definition
a compound of oxygen and a metal. This compound reacts with acids to form salt and water. #ChemistryDefinitions
Oxides of most metals are basic oxides.
Physical properties Since basic oxides are metal oxides, basic oxides are bases. ⇒ basic oxides and bases have similar physical properties. They are ionic compounds with giant ionic lattice structures.
- High melting and boiling points, solids at R.T.P
- Only some basic compounds are soluble in water. Few oxides - such as sodium oxide and potassium oxide - dissolve readily in water to form alkalis. Most others are insoluble. Refer to Alkalis to find out the ones which are soluble in water.
- Water soluble basic oxides (metal oxides) → dissolve in water → these oxides will react with water to form aqueous solution of corresponding metal hydroxides.
- Good conductor of electricity when molten (properties of bases and alkalis)
Chemical properties Since basic oxides are metal oxides, basic oxides are bases. Basic oxides and bases have similar chemical properties. Basic oxide + dilute acid→ salt + water (neutralization) Basic oxides - solid at room temperature. They react with acids to form salt and water
| Basic oxide | formula |
| copper(II)oxide | CuO |
| Calcium oxide | CaO |
| Magnesium oxide | MgO |
| Iron() |