Question

If someone in your family is suffering from acidity after overeating, which of the following would you suggest as a remedy?

• A. Lemon juice
• B. Vinegar
• C. Baking soda solution
• D. Saltwater

Hint:

Remember that antacids, which are commonly used to treat acidity, often contain bases like bicarbonates, carbonates, or hydroxides of metals such as magnesium, aluminium, or calcium to neutralize stomach acid.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understand the cause of acidity after overeating.
Acidity, or heartburn, occurs when there is an excess of acid in the stomach. Overeating can lead to the stomach producing more acid to digest the larger amount of food, resulting in discomfort and a burning sensation.
Step 2: Consider the nature of the given options.

• 
  Lemon juice:
  Lemon juice is acidic due to the presence of citric acid. Consuming it might temporarily worsen the acidity, although some believe it can have an alkalizing effect after digestion in small amounts, this is not a direct and immediate remedy.
• 
  Vinegar:
  Vinegar contains acetic acid and is acidic. Similar to lemon juice, it is not a suitable remedy for immediate relief from acidity.
• 
  Baking soda solution:
  Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate, \(NaHCO_3\)) is a weak base. When it reacts with excess stomach acid (primarily hydrochloric acid, \(HCl\)), it neutralizes the acid, forming salt (sodium chloride, \(NaCl\)), water (\(H_2O\)), and carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)). This reaction helps to reduce the acidity and provide relief. \[ NaHCO_3(s) + HCl(aq) \rightarrow NaCl(aq) + H_2O(l) + CO_2(g) \]
• 
  Saltwater:
  Saltwater (a solution of sodium chloride in water) does not have any significant acid-neutralizing properties and would not provide relief from acidity. In large quantities, it can even be harmful.

Step 3: Identify the remedy that can neutralize stomach acid.
Baking soda solution is a basic solution that reacts with and neutralizes excess stomach acid, providing relief from acidity.