What is the product of the reaction between a metal oxide and water?

The reaction between a metal oxide and water typically produces a metal hydroxide. Metal oxides are basic in nature, and when they react with water, they undergo a process called hydrolysis, resulting in the formation of metal hydroxides. For example, calcium oxide (CaO) reacts with water to form calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂).

This process reflects the characteristic nature of metal oxides, which tend to produce alkaline solutions when dissolved in water. The metal hydroxides produced in these reactions are often basic and can further react with acids to form salts and water, which is a foundational concept in acid-base chemistry.

Understanding that the interaction of metal oxides with water leads to the formation of metal hydroxides helps to clarify the behavior of these compounds in various chemical contexts, reinforcing the classification of metal hydroxides as bases and highlighting their role in neutralization reactions.