Question

What is an antacid? Name two commonly used antacids. How does an antacid work?

Answer 1

Antacids:

Antacids are medicines that help in neutralizing the acid content of the stomach.

Examples:

Aluminum hydroxide($\mathrm{Al}{\left(\mathrm{OH}\right)}_3$) and Magnesium carbonate(${\mathrm{MgCO}}_3$) are two commonly used antacids.

Working:

1. If our stomach has more acid than usual, it causes acidity.
2. Antacids are bases and they work by neutralizing the acid in the stomach.
3. This neutralization reaction thus prevents the acid from affecting the stomach.
4. Thus helping to relieve the pain associated with the burning sensation.