Which of the following oxides is acidic in nature ?

Options

A. `B_(2)O_(3)`
B. `Al_(2)O_(3)`
C. `Ga_(2)O_(3)`
D. `ln_(2)O_(3)`

Explanation

To determine which of the following oxides is acidic in nature among boron oxide (B2O3), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), gallium oxide (Ga2O3), and indium oxide (In2O3), we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Concept of Acidity in Oxides
Acidity in oxides refers to the tendency of the oxide to accept lone pairs of electrons. Acidic oxides typically react with bases to form salts and water.

**Hint:** Remember that acidic oxides are usually formed from non-metals or metalloids, while basic oxides are formed from metals.

### Step 2: Analyze the Group Trend
The oxides in question belong to the boron family (Group 13). As we move down the group from boron (B) to indium (In), the electronegativity of the elements decreases.

**Hint:** Group trends in the periodic table can help predict the properties of elements and their compounds.

### Step 3: Determine the Acidity Trend
As electronegativity decreases down the group, the tendency of the oxides to accept lone pairs also decreases. Therefore, the acidity of the oxides decreases from boron oxide to indium oxide.

**Hint:** Consider how electronegativity affects the ability of an element to attract electrons.

### Step 4: Classify the Oxides
- **Boron Oxide (B2O3)**: Acidic in nature due to higher electronegativity.
- **Aluminum Oxide (Al2O3)**: Amphoteric (can act as both acidic and basic).
- **Gallium Oxide (Ga2O3)**: Amphoteric.
- **Indium Oxide (In2O3)**: Basic in nature.

**Hint:** Remember that amphoteric oxides can react with both acids and bases.

### Step 5: Conclusion
Based on the analysis, boron oxide (B2O3) is the only oxide among the given options that is acidic in nature.

**Final Answer:** Boron oxide (B2O3) is acidic in nature.