Some examples of non-metals are carbon, sulphur, phosphorus, silicon, etc.
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When these non-metals react with the oxygen they result in forming oxides that are either acidic or neutral in nature.
These oxides are covalent in nature because they are formed by sharing electrons.
The reaction between sulphur and oxygen forms an acidic oxide called Sulphuric Acid.
The carbon burns when it reacts with oxygen and forms carbon dioxide which is an acidic oxide.
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To confirm the acidic nature of carbon dioxide we can dissolve it in water which forms carbonic acid.
When this carbonic acid is added to the blue litmus solution, the colour of the solution changes to red. This change in colour confirms the acidic nature of CO₂.
When hydrogen reacts with oxygen it forms a water molecule which is a neutral oxide.
A highly reactive non-metal phosphorus when exposed to air (oxygen), catches the fire.
These are some examples that explain how non-metals react with oxygen. Share these with your friends.