which one of the following oxides is neutral?

Options

A. `SiO_(2)`
B. `CO`
C. `ZnO`
D. `SnO_(2)`

Answer

To determine which of the given oxides is neutral, we need to analyze the nature of each oxide provided. Let's go through them step by step:

1. **Identify the oxides**: The oxides mentioned are SiO2, CO, ZnO, and SnO2.

2. **Analyze SiO2**:
- SiO2 (silicon dioxide) is known to be acidic.
- It reacts with bases to form salts. For example, when SiO2 reacts with NaOH, it forms Na2SiO3 (sodium silicate) and water.
- Therefore, SiO2 is **acidic**.

3. **Analyze CO**:
- CO (carbon monoxide) is known to be a neutral oxide.
- It does not react with acids or bases and does not change the color of litmus paper.
- Therefore, CO is **neutral**.

4. **Analyze ZnO**:
- ZnO (zinc oxide) is classified as an amphoteric oxide.
- It can react with both acids and bases to form salts and water.
- Therefore, ZnO is **amphoteric**.

5. **Analyze SnO2**:
- SnO2 (tin dioxide) is also an amphoteric oxide.
- Similar to ZnO, it can react with both acids and bases.
- Therefore, SnO2 is **amphoteric**.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Among the oxides analyzed, the only oxide that is neutral is **CO (carbon monoxide)**.

### Final Answer:
The neutral oxide among the given options is **CO (carbon monoxide)**.