* Metal Oxides: Barium is a metal. Metal oxides generally react with water to form metal hydroxides, which are basic in nature.

* Reaction with Water: Barium oxide reacts vigorously with water to produce barium hydroxide (Ba(OH)₂), a strong base.

The equation:

BaO + H₂O → Ba(OH)₂

In summary: The reaction of barium oxide with water to form a strong base confirms that barium oxide is a basic oxide.