52 Classic chemistry experiments

21. Testing the pH of oxides

Topic
Metal and non-metal oxides.

Timing
2030 min.

Description
Students test the pH of various metal and non-metal oxides.

Apparatus and equipment (per group)

Test-tubes.

Chemicals (per group)

Provide solutions of :
3
Nitric acid (labelled Nitrogen oxide and water) 0.2 mol dm (Irritant)
3
Sodium hydroxide (labelled Sodium oxide and water) 0.2 mol dm (Irritant)
3
Potassium hydroxide (labelled Potassium oxide and water) 0.2 mol dm (Irritant)
3
Phosphoric acid (labelled Phosphorus (V) oxide and water) 0.2 mol dm
3
Calcium hydroxide (labelled Calcium oxide and water) 0.2 mol dm
Universal Indicator (in bottle with dropping pipette).
In the past, chemistry teachers have labelled these as oxide solutions. It is understood
that these are not solutions, the oxides do not dissolve they have reactions with
water. While it is important to maintain accuracy, it is suggested that an and water
approach is taken. This is accurate and it allows the teacher to focus on the teaching
point without the need to cover another set of reactions. However, teachers may wish
to cover these reactions with water, this may depend on the age and ability of the
class.

Teaching tips
Students are often confused with the difference between bases and alkalis.

Background theory
In general metal oxides are basic, non-metal oxides are acidic. Some metal oxides
react with water to form alkaline solutions. Some metal oxides do not react with water.
They test neutral in water because they are insoluble but are bases and react with
acids. Non-metal oxides react with water to form acids.

Safety
Wear eye protection. If other concentrations of solution are used, ensure they are less
3
than 0.5 mol dm .

Answers
1. Sodium, potassium and calcium oxides are metallic.
2. All the metal oxides are basic.
3. Some metal oxides do not react to form hydroxides in water therefore they are
neutral.
Classic chemistry experiments 53

Testing the pH of oxides

Introduction
In this experiment the pH of various oxides is tested.

Solutions of various oxides Universal Indicator

What to record
Colour of Acid, alkali
Name of oxide Universal Indicator pH value or neutral
Nitrogen oxide
Sodium oxide
Potassium oxide
Phosphorus(V) oxide
Calcium oxide

What to do
3
1. Using separate test-tubes, collect a sample (about 2 cm ) of each oxide in water.
2. Add three drops of Universal Indicator solution to each sample.
3. Record the results in a table showing the oxide, the colour of the Universal
Indicator, the pH and whether the oxide is acidic, alkaline or neutral in water.

Safety
Wear eye protection

Questions
1. Which compounds in the table are metal oxides?
2. Comment on your results for the metal oxides?
3. Some metal oxides do not react with water. Predict the pH of these compounds.