How do oxides react with alkalis?

Oxides react with alkalis to form a salt and water, in a process known as a neutralisation reaction.

In more detail, when an oxide reacts with an alkali, it forms a type of salt and water. This is a specific type of chemical reaction known as a neutralisation reaction. The general equation for this reaction is: Acidic Oxide + Alkali -> Salt + Water.

For example, consider the reaction between sodium hydroxide (an alkali) and carbon dioxide (an acidic oxide). The reaction would proceed as follows: NaOH + CO2 -> Na2CO3 + H2O. In this reaction, sodium carbonate is the salt that is formed.

It's important to note that not all oxides will react with alkalis. Only acidic oxides, which are typically non-metal oxides, will react in this way. Basic oxides, which are usually metal oxides, do not react with alkalis. This is because both basic oxides and alkalis are basic in nature, and a neutralisation reaction requires both an acid and a base.

The reactions between oxides and alkalis are important in many areas of chemistry and industry. For example, they are used in the manufacture of many types of glass and ceramics, in the treatment of acidic waste gases, and in the neutralisation of acidic soils in agriculture. Understanding these reactions can also help us to understand and predict the behaviour of different substances in the environment.

In summary, when an acidic oxide reacts with an alkali, a salt and water are formed. This is a neutralisation reaction, and it is a fundamental concept in chemistry.