Here's why:
* Amphoteric Oxide: ZnO exhibits both acidic and basic properties. It reacts with acids to form salts and water, and with strong bases to form zincates.
* Reduction by a Basic Gas: ZnO can be reduced by a basic gas like hydrogen gas (H₂) at high temperatures. The reaction proceeds as follows:
ZnO(s) + H₂(g) → Zn(s) + H₂O(g)
In this reaction, the hydrogen gas acts as a reducing agent, providing electrons to reduce ZnO to metallic zinc.
Let me know if you'd like more examples or explanations!