Antacids and indigestion practical 7fe2 Acids and Alkalis Lesson 7

Summary

In this engaging video, the experimenter investigates the effectiveness of two antacids, Reni and Gaviscon, in neutralizing hydrochloric acid, which simulates stomach acid. After crushing each antacid, 10 milliliters of hydrochloric acid is added to both mixtures. The universal indicator reveals a significant pH change after adding the antacids: Reni raises the pH to 4, while Gaviscon achieves a neutral pH of 7. This demonstrates that Gaviscon is more effective at neutralizing acid without raising the pH too high, highlighting the importance of choosing the right antacid for heartburn relief.

Takeaways

• 😀 Antacids are used to neutralize excess stomach acid, alleviating heartburn symptoms.
• 🧪 The experiment involves comparing two antacids: Reni and Gaviscon.
• 🔬 Crushing the antacid tablets helps them dissolve more easily in the acid.
• ⚗️ Hydrochloric acid simulates the acidity found in the human stomach.
• 📏 Accurate measurement of liquids is crucial; the meniscus should be at the correct line.
• 🌈 Universal indicator paper is used to determine the pH level of solutions.
• 🔴 Hydrochloric acid has a very low pH, indicated by red on the universal indicator.
• 💨 Both antacids react with hydrochloric acid, producing carbon dioxide gas.
• 🟢 Reni raises the pH to about 4, while Gaviscon achieves a neutral pH of 7.
• 🏆 A better antacid completely neutralizes stomach acid without making it too alkaline.

Q & A

What are antacids and why are they used?

Antacids are substances that neutralize stomach acid. They are commonly used to relieve symptoms of heartburn, which occurs when there is an excess of acid in the stomach.

What two antacids were compared in the experiment?

The experiment compared two antacids: Reni and Gaviscon.

How was the effectiveness of the antacids tested?

The effectiveness of the antacids was tested by measuring the pH of hydrochloric acid before and after adding each antacid.

What safety measure was highlighted when handling hydrochloric acid?

It was emphasized that using a pipette to transfer the hydrochloric acid is safer than pouring directly from the bottle.

What color did the universal indicator paper turn when dipped in hydrochloric acid?

The universal indicator paper turned reddish-orange, indicating a low pH of about 1.

What was the pH of the solution after adding Reni antacid?

After adding Reni antacid, the pH of the solution rose to around 4, indicating that it did not completely neutralize the acid.

How did Gaviscon perform in the experiment compared to Reni?

Gaviscon performed better than Reni, raising the pH to around 7, which indicates it completely neutralized the acid.

What chemical reaction occurs when magnesium carbonate from Reni reacts with hydrochloric acid?

When magnesium carbonate from Reni reacts with hydrochloric acid, it produces magnesium chloride (a salt) and carbon dioxide gas.

What is the significance of a pH of 7 in this context?

A pH of 7 is considered neutral, which is the desired outcome for an effective antacid, as it means the acid has been completely neutralized.

Why is it undesirable for an antacid to make the stomach too alkaline?

It is undesirable for an antacid to make the stomach too alkaline because the stomach environment needs to be neutral for proper digestion and to prevent discomfort.