A metal 'X' is used in thermit process. When 'X' is heated with oxygen, it gives an oxide 'Y', which is amphoteric in nature. 'X' and 'Y' respectively are :

According to the NCERT text, aluminium oxide ($\text{Al}_2\text{O}_3$) and zinc oxide ($\text{ZnO}$) show both acidic as well as basic behaviour, making them amphoteric oxides. The reaction of aluminium with oxygen is:

$$4\text{Al(s)} + 3\text{O}_2\text{(g)} \rightarrow 2\text{Al}_2\text{O}_3\text{(s)}$$

Aluminium ($\text{Al}$) is also widely used in the thermit process to reduce metal oxides. Therefore, metal 'X' is $\text{Al}$ and oxide 'Y' is $\text{Al}_2\text{O}_3$.

• Option A ($\text{Mn}, \text{MnO}_2$) is incorrect because manganese dioxide is not amphoteric.
• Option C ($\text{Fe}, \text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3$) is incorrect because iron(III) oxide is basic in nature.
• Option D ($\text{Mg}, \text{MgO}$) is incorrect because magnesium oxide is basic in nature.