Chemistry / Unit 12 Chem 2302 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Amphoterism at the Metal-Nonmetal Boundary
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The idea
Per Chem 1809's amphoteric definition, elements and compounds near the metal-nonmetal boundary of the periodic table characteristically react with both acids and bases.
In practice
Aluminum hydroxide dissolves in strong acid and in strong base alike, but not in water alone.
Where people slip
Amphoteric is not the same as neutral — an amphoteric substance reacts readily with either type of reagent rather than with neither.
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