Milk of magnesia is what type of substance?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Mildly basic
Milk of magnesia is a suspension of magnesium hydroxide, Mg(OH)2. Magnesium hydroxide is a weak or mildly basic substance, so it can neutralise some excess hydrochloric acid in the stomach. Therefore option A is correct. It is not a strong acid, a neutral salt, or metallic magnesium; the name refers to the hydroxide suspension rather than the pure metal.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Mildly basic
Why is this the correct answer?
Milk of magnesia is a suspension of magnesium hydroxide, Mg(OH)2. Magnesium hydroxide is a weak or mildly basic substance, so it can neutralise some excess hydrochloric acid in the stomach. Therefore option A is correct. It is not a strong acid, a neutral salt, or metallic magnesium; the name refers to the hydroxide suspension rather than the pure metal.
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.