Chapter 20, Problem 31E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The amphoteric nature of ${\text{Al}}_{\text{2}}{\text{O}}_{\text{3}}$ is to be explained.

Concept introduction: Aluminum $\left(\text{Al}\right)$ metal is a group $3\text{A}$ element and exhibits $+1$ and $+3$ oxidation state.

The compound that reacts with an acid as well as with a base, is known as amphoteric compound.

To explain: The amphoteric nature of ${\text{Al}}_{\text{2}}{\text{O}}_{\text{3}}$.