Science — AI-generated practice question

Non-metallic oxides are considered acidic in nature because when they dissolve in water, they produce H⁺(aq) ions in solution. For example, sulphur dioxide dissolves in water to form sulphurous acid (H₂SO₃), which releases H⁺ ions. Since acidic nature of a substance is due to the formation of H⁺(aq) ions in solution, non-metallic oxides are acidic.

Source: Chapter 3, What you have learnt; Chapter 2, Section 2.2

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• The key link examiners expect: non-metallic oxides + water → acid → releases H⁺(aq) ions.
• The textbook states non-metals form oxides that are acidic or neutral, and acidic nature is due to H⁺(aq) ion formation in solution.
• Give one example (SO₂ → H₂SO₃, or CO₂ → H₂CO₃) to support the answer — this often fetches the second mark.
• Do not confuse with metals, which form basic oxides (except amphoteric ones like Al₂O₃, ZnO).