A student takes an antacid to relieve acidity. What type of reaction does an antacid mainly undergo with excess hydrochloric acid present in the stomach?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Neutralisation reaction
Antacids are basic substances that neutralise excess hydrochloric acid in the stomach. An acid-base reaction generally produces salt and water; for example, \(Mg(OH)_2 + 2HCl \rightarrow MgCl_2 + 2H_2O\). Hence, this is a neutralisation reaction. In a displacement reaction, one element replaces another element from a compound, which does not happen here. Exam tip: acid + base producing salt + water indicates neutralisation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Neutralisation reaction
Why is this the correct answer?
Antacids are basic substances that neutralise excess hydrochloric acid in the stomach. An acid-base reaction generally produces salt and water; for example, \(Mg(OH)_2 + 2HCl \rightarrow MgCl_2 + 2H_2O\). Hence, this is a neutralisation reaction. In a displacement reaction, one element replaces another element from a compound, which does not happen here. Exam tip: acid + base producing salt + water indicates neutralisation.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Acids, Bases, and Salts.
