Q3: Explain how an antacid works.       [Board Term 1, 2017]Ans: An antacid works by neutralizing excess stomach acid, which can cause indigestion, pain, and irritation. It contains a base, such as magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia), which reacts with the excess hydrochloric acid in the stomach to form a salt and water. The reaction can be represented as follows:Mg(OH)2 + 2HCl → MgCl2 + 2H2OThe formed salt, magnesium chloride, is neutral and helps alleviate the symptoms of indigesti

Antacids are pills designed to neutralize the acid in our stomach.Our stomachs contain hydrochloric acid (HCl), which is a strong acid responsible for aiding digestion.Antacids are considered weak bases or salts that act to neutralize stomach acid.They typically have a pH range from 8.5 to 10.5, making them more alkaline compared to the acidic pH of the stomach (pH 2 to 3).Antacids do not completely neutralize stomach acid to avoid disrupting the digestive system's natural processes.Stomach acid is essential for digestion but excessive amounts can lead to discomfort and damage to the esophagus.Antacids containing sodium tend to work best and faster, but individuals with blood pressure issues or dietary restrictions may need to avoid them.Liquid antacids generally work faster than tablets and do not require a prescription before use.When ingested, antacids react with the acid in the stomach to form salts and water, thereby reducing acidity and providing relief from heartburn symptoms within minutes.

What does an antacid do to neutralize excess stomach acid?Multiple ChoiceRelease saltRelease H+Take up H+

[L] contain weak alkalis such as magnesium hydroxide and aluminium hydroxide to neutralize the excess acid in the stomach in order to relief stomachache.

Explain why antacid tablets for gastric patients work better if they are chewed before being swallowed.

Fill in the Blank QuestionFill in the blank question.The acid content of the stomach then converts inactive into the active enzyme .