Oxide

An oxide is a chemical compound of oxygen with other chemical elements, e.g. rust (iron oxide) or bauxite (aluminium oxide). Oxides are extremely common in Earth's crust, and indeed in solid matter throughout the universe.

Oxides are usually created through the process of oxidation.

Generally, oxides are not conductive to electricity. This property is most commonly taken advantage of with silicon oxide, as silicon can easily be oxidized and the resulting part can be made into a transistor. This is the basis for much modern computer technology.

Types of Oxides

Oxides may be divided into 2 groups: metallic and nonmetallic oxides. These can be further divided into (for metallic oxides) basic and amphoteric oxides, and (for nonmetallic oxides) neutral and acidic oxides.

Basic oxides are oxides which react with acids to form salts. They may also dissolve in water, forming alkalis. Amphoteric oxides may react with either acids or bases, forming salts.

Neutral oxides do not react with either acids or bases. All neutral oxides are monoxides. Acidic oxides form acids in aqueous solution.

Oxide

Types of Oxides

See Also