An element of group 2 forms covalent oxide which is amphoteric in nature and dissolves in water to give an amphoteric hydroxide. Identify the element and write chemical reactions of the hydroxide of the element with an alkali and an acid.

Explanation

Because of small size and comparatively high electronegativity of Be , BeO is covalent . It is insoluble in water . It is amphoteric in nature and dissolves in acids as well as alkalies .
`BeO + 2 HCl to BeCl_(2) + H_(2)O`
`BeO + 2NaOH to underset("Sod. beryllate")(Na_(2)BeO_(2) +) H_(2)O`