Write the neutralization equation that would take place in the stomach with two different bases used in antacid products
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Neutralization in the stomach occurs when bases react with stomach acid (hydrochloric acid, HCl) to alleviate symptoms of acidity. Common antacid bases include magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂) and aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)₃). The neutralization reactions for these two bases can be represented by the following equations:
- For magnesium hydroxide: [
\text{Mg(OH)}_2 + 2 \text{HCl} \rightarrow \text{MgCl}_2 + 2 \text{H}_2\text{O}
] - For aluminum hydroxide: [
\text{Al(OH)}_3 + 3 \text{HCl} \rightarrow \text{AlCl}_3 + 3 \text{H}_2\text{O}
]
Explanation
The stomach produces hydrochloric acid (HCl) to aid in digestion and kill harmful bacteria. However, excessive acid can lead to discomfort, heartburn, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Antacids serve as a remedy by neutralizing the excess stomach acid, thereby restoring a more neutral pH balance.
In the first reaction, magnesium hydroxide, a common ingredient in antacids, reacts with hydrochloric acid. Each molecule of magnesium hydroxide can neutralize two molecules of HCl, producing magnesium chloride (a soluble salt) and water. This reaction is quite effective because magnesium hydroxide is a strong base that quickly reduces acidity.
The second reaction involves aluminum hydroxide, which also acts as an antacid. Each molecule of aluminum hydroxide reacts with three molecules of hydrochloric acid, yielding aluminum chloride and water. This reaction is slower than that of magnesium hydroxide but is beneficial for its ability to provide a sustained neutralization effect over time.
Both reactions help to alleviate symptoms of acid indigestion by directly decreasing the acidity in the stomach. The resulting salts (magnesium chloride and aluminum chloride) are typically harmless and easily excreted by the body. These neutralization processes are crucial for providing relief from discomfort and preventing damage to the stomach lining due to excessive acidity.