What is the difference between cuprous oxide and cupric oxide?

The main difference lies in their chemical valence, appearance, and properties. Cuprous oxide (Cu₂O) is monovalent copper, showing red or reddish-brown, while cupric oxide (CuO) is divalent copper and appears black. Cuprous oxide is a p-type semiconductor with good antifouling and antibacterial effects, whereas cupric oxide is more commonly used as a coloring agent and catalyst in ceramics and electronics.

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