* Ionic Compound: Na₂O is an ionic compound formed by the reaction of sodium (Na) and oxygen (O). Sodium loses an electron to become a positively charged ion (Na⁺), while oxygen gains two electrons to become a negatively charged ion (O²⁻).

* Metal Oxide: Na₂O is a metal oxide because it contains a metal (sodium).

* Basic Nature: Metal oxides tend to be basic in nature. When they dissolve in water, they produce hydroxide ions (OH⁻), which make the solution alkaline (basic).

Reaction with water:

Na₂O + H₂O → 2NaOH

In this reaction, sodium oxide reacts with water to form sodium hydroxide (NaOH), a strong base. This is a characteristic reaction of basic oxides.

In summary: While the formula Na₂O might seem to suggest neutrality, its ionic nature and the formation of hydroxide ions when dissolved in water make it a basic oxide.