Here's why:

* Amphoteric oxides are oxides that can react with both acids and bases.

* With acids: ZnO reacts with acids to form zinc salts and water. For example:

ZnO + 2HCl → ZnCl₂ + H₂O

* With bases: ZnO reacts with strong bases to form zincates. For example:

ZnO + 2NaOH → Na₂ZnO₂ + H₂O

Therefore, zinc oxide exhibits both acidic and basic properties, making it an amphoteric oxide.