Question

Oxides and hydroxides of certain metals are _______ in nature.
A. Acidic
B. Amphoteric
C. Basic
D. Neutral

Answer 1

An oxide is a category of chemical compound that has one or more oxygen atoms as well as another element in its composition. Hydroxide is a diatomic anion consisting of one atom of oxygen and hydrogen bonded together by a covalent bond, with chemical formula as $O{H^ - }$ and carries negatively charged ions. It functions as a nucleophile, a ligand, a catalyst, and a base.

Complete answer:
Oxides and hydroxides that act as both acidic and basic are known as amphoteric oxides or amphoteric hydroxides. They have acidic and basic properties, and they neutralise both acids and bases.
Metal oxides classified as amphoteric oxides react with both acids and bases to produce salts and water. Lead oxide ($PbO$) and zinc oxide ($ZnO$) are two examples of amphoteric oxides. One type of amphoteric species is amphiprotic molecules, which can donate or take a proton (${H^ + }$).
Amphoteric oxide or amphoteric hydroxides are metal hydroxides with highly charged centre metal atoms. Aluminium, zinc, tin, lead, and beryllium are examples of metals that can form amphoteric oxide or hydroxide. Based on the pH of the surrounding substances, these hydroxides will produce amphoteric hydroxide. $Al{(OH)_3}$ and $Zn{(OH)_2}$ are examples of amphoteric hydroxides.
Hence, the correct option is B. Amphoteric.

Note:
An acidic oxide is an oxide that produces an acid when mixed with water. A basic oxide is an oxide that produces a base when mixed with water. The term "neutral oxide" refers to a substance that is neither acidic nor basic.