Question detail
Why is calcium carbonate commonly used in antacids?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Group 2, the alkaline earth metals
Question
- A. It is a strong base
- B. It reacts with stomach acid to relieve indigestion
- C. It has a pleasant taste
- D. It is a natural mineral
Answer
It reacts with stomach acid to relieve indigestion
Explanation
Calcium carbonate neutralizes stomach acid, providing relief from indigestion, which is why it is commonly used in antacids.
Common mistake
Neutralising Acidity with Magnesium Hydroxide
Students often confuse the roles of magnesium hydroxide and calcium carbonate in neutralising acidity, thinking they are interchangeable.
To clarify, magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂) is a strong base that reacts with acids to form water and a salt, while calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) reacts to produce carbon dioxide, water, and a salt. The reaction for magnesium hydroxide can be represented as: Mg(OH)₂ + 2HCl → MgCl₂ + 2H₂O. Here, substitution shows that 1 mole of magnesium hydroxide neutralises 2 moles of hydrochloric acid, resulting in 1 mole of magnesium chloride and 2 moles of water. The conclusion is that magnesium hydroxide is effective for neutralising acidity due to its strong basic properties.
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