MediumChemistryHigh School (9–10)GeneralAcids, Bases and Salts › pH and NeutralisationAcids, Bases and Salts › Acids and BasesConceptual
Write the equation for the neutralisation of stomach acid by magnesium hydroxide.
Contributed by StemPy LabTry it on paper first. A hint, the key idea and the worked solution are here when you need them.
Write the equation for the neutralisation of stomach acid by magnesium hydroxide. Why is magnesium hydroxide used for indigestion, and not sodium hydroxide? Name one other antacid.
Need a reminder? The key ideaShow
Stomach acid is hydrochloric acid of pH about ; antacids are mild bases. Tooth enamel dissolves below pH ; toothpaste is basic. Bee and ant stings are acidic, so a mild base helps. Acidic soil gets lime.
The worked solution
Have you tried it?
Work it out on paper first. It is fine to get stuck or make a mistake: that is how we learn. When you are ready, go through the solution one step at a time, and check each step against your own.
Step 1. .
Step 2. Magnesium hydroxide is a mild base that hardly dissolves, so it neutralises gently. Sodium hydroxide is a strong alkali that would burn the mouth and stomach.
Step 3. Another antacid: baking soda or calcium carbonate.
Answer: as above.
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