4.4.2 Acidic Nature of Non-metal Oxides

Last updated at April 25, 2026 by

What is Acidic Nature of Non-metal Oxides?

It is the property by which non-metal oxides turn blue litmus red and form acids in water.

Key Facts and Examples
  • Non-metal oxides are acidic in nature .
Example: Sulphur dioxide, carbon dioxide turn blue litmus red
  • Metal oxides are basic in nature .
Example: Magnesium oxide turns red litmus blue
  • Non-metal oxides dissolve in water to form acids .
Example: Carbon dioxide forms carbonic acid in water
Metal vs Non-metal Oxides Property Metal Oxides Non-metal Oxides Nature Basic Acidic Litmus test Red → Blue Blue → Red In water Forms bases Forms acids Example MgO → Mg(OH)₂ SO₂ → H₂SO₃
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