Neutralizing Stomach Acidity
Excess acidity in the stomach is primarily due to hydrochloric acid (HCl). To counteract this, a substance that can neutralize the acid is required.
Evaluating Options for Acidity Relief
- Lemon juice: Contains citric acid, which is acidic. Adding it would increase stomach acidity.
- Antacids like Mg(OH)\(_2\): Magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)\(_2\)) is a base. Bases react with acids to neutralize them. This is the standard treatment for excess stomach acidity.
- HCl solution: This is a strong acid and would significantly worsen stomach acidity.
- Vinegar: Contains acetic acid, which is acidic. Adding it would increase stomach acidity.
Chemical Neutralization Explained
Antacids work through a chemical reaction. For example, magnesium hydroxide reacts with hydrochloric acid:
\( \text{Mg(OH)}_2 \text{(aq)} + 2\text{HCl (aq)} \rightarrow \text{MgCl}_2 \text{(aq)} + 2\text{H}_2\text{O (l)} \)
This reaction converts the acid (HCl) into a neutral salt (MgCl\(_2\)) and water (H\(_2\)O), reducing the acidity in the stomach.
Conclusion on Acidity Relief
Therefore, antacids like Mg(OH)\(_2\) are suitable for neutralizing excess stomach acidity.
Similar Questions
- The pH value increase from 7 to 14 represents a:
- Which of the following statements is/are true or false?
Statements:
A) H$_2$SO$_4$ is used in the refining of petroleum to remove sulphur and other compounds.
B) The basic nature of Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) is due to the presence of Hydrogen ions in the solution.
Important Questions from Acids, Bases & Salts
When a large amount of carbon dioxide dissolves in a water body, the water becomes acidic because of the formation of which of the following acids?
Which one of the following oxides is a neutral oxide?
- Which of the following solutions is slightly acidic due to hydrolysis?
- Which of the following foods would you advise to neutralise excess stomach acids?
- What is the primary contributor to the sour taste in foods like lemons, vinegar and yoghurt?
