Why does sodium hydroxide react with aluminum oxide? I have seen all the chemical formulas for the reaction between sodium hydroxide, water, and aluminium. I understand that the hydrogen gas comes from the aluminum reacting with the water and the sodium hydroxide just breaks down the aluminum oxide. But why does sodium hydroxide break it down? Also since aluminum oxide is amphoteric can you do this reaction with a strong acid instead of a strong base?
If you use a "strong acid" to break down the passive oxide you need to be careful which acid you choose.  Sulfuric or nitric acid is oxidizing and thus could maintain the oxide.  Hydrochloric acid would be best, among common mineral acids, for actually getting to the metal while being relatively easy to handle.