Question

Statement 1: Sodium hydroxide can be used to treat acidity. ​

Statement 2: Mild bases can be used as antacids.

• A. Statement 2 is true, but statement 1 is false.
• B. Statement 1 is true, but statement 2 is false.
• C. Both statements are false.
• D. Both the statements are true.

Answer 1

The correct option is A Statement 2 is true, but statement 1 is false.

Statement 1: Sodium hydroxide can be used to treat acidity. ​

Statement 1 is incorrect because sodium hydroxide is a strong base and is not used to neutralise the acids present in the stomach. Strong bases are extremely corrosive and their consumption can result in damage to various vital organs.

Statement 2: Mild bases can be used as antacids.

Mild bases such as magnesium hydroxide (Milk of magnesia) and aluminium hydroxide are often used to treat acidity. These bases are mild enough to not damage the vital organs or the body but are able to neutralise the excess acid present in the stomach. Hence, statement 2 is correct.