Shouldn't aluminium oxide be reactive?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the reactivity of aluminium oxide, particularly in relation to its behavior in acidic environments and its amphoteric nature. Participants explore the conditions under which aluminium oxide reacts with acids and bases, as well as the implications for practical applications.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that aluminium forms a protective layer of aluminium oxide when exposed to air, which makes it unreactive in acids.
  • Another participant claims that aluminium oxide does react with acids, albeit slowly.
  • A different participant expands on the reactivity of aluminium in basic conditions, suggesting that the amphoteric oxide reacts vigorously when ionized to form aluminate ions.
  • Another contribution emphasizes that while aluminium oxide is stable under normal conditions and resistant to oxidation, it still reacts with acids, though not rapidly, and highlights the limited impact of normal acid rain on aluminium structures.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the reactivity of aluminium oxide with acids, with some asserting it reacts slowly while others emphasize its vigorous reaction in basic conditions. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the overall reactivity of aluminium oxide.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention various conditions affecting reactivity, including the presence of protective oxide layers and the nature of the acids or bases involved, but do not resolve the implications of these factors.

Kyoma
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Once exposed to air, aluminium would form a layer of aluminium oxide, which would render it unreactive in acids.

But, aluminium oxide is an amphoteric oxide. Shouldn't it be reactive in acids?
 
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It reacts with acids, just slowly.
 
Okay, thanks for the help.
 
I agree with Borek but to expand a bit on the subject; if you put aluminum in base where the amphoteric oxide (actually the hydroxide) gets ionized to aluminate ions, which are soluble and leaves the surface, it reacts like crazy.
 
It's stable ONLY to normal conditions, like resistant to oxidation. But it still reacts with acid, not quite fast. Normal acid rain would do only little harm to it, if you have framework made of aluminum, don't be afraid of errosion, and I guess you don't pour concentated sulpuric acid onto it!
 

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