1. Testing
Antacids
Abinaya Helbig
PERFORMED
03/11/2010
SUBMITTED
03/24/2010
SNC2D0-G
Mr. Shaughnessy, J.

2. Discussion
Stirring is major part of the lab because this activity gives a somewhat accurate data for the
antacids. However, if the mixture was not stirred properly as the acid (HCl) was added, the mixture may
not get mixed thoroughly and some part of the liquid may still remain acidic. In other words, only few
particles of the acid react with the particles of the base and the rest would be unable to neutralize the acid,
to accurately measure the pH of 2, resulting in an incomplete neutralization reaction which will display
incorrect data. So stirring the mixture as the acid is added, is vital/ necessary for the somewhat accuracy
of the data. Another major part of the lab is the indicator (used red cabbage juice instead of universal
indictor) this is because the lab was supposed to be similar to the neutralizing acid in a human stomach.
Since the stomach has an approximate pH level of 2, all the antacid tablets are supposed to be measured
the pH of 2, using HCl. However, just adding HCl into the antacid+ water solution does not indicate the
pH level, because the solution stays clear or just fizzes. In order to determine whether the pH is 2, an
indicator is required, where color changes occur depending on the pH level. Therefore, the color of the
indicator changed when the acid was added because it demonstrated that pH of the mixture is not neutral
any more (it is either basic or acidic). To make it easier, scientists tested the pH indicator and verified
which color represents what pH level/ number. There is a variety of antacids available to people and each
have different characteristics to satisfy the customer's preferences.For a scenario, would someone want an
antacid to dissolve in the stomach instantly or over a period of time? The most reasonable answer would
be, over a period of time. This would be a better choice because the stomach lining is replaced every few
days and if the antacid dissolves instantly it can create other side effects. The reason for this is because
the human stomach is accustomed to dissolving substances over a period of time. As stated above, to
satisfy the customers' preferences, same medications are produced in the form of a liquid and in a form of
a solid (tablet). However each type has its own benefit. One possible advantage of liquid medicines over
solid medicines is that it takes its effects really quickly. In other words, it can react faster and can bring
results faster, but the solid medicine will take some time to dissolve. On possible advantage of solid
medicine over liquid medicine is that it does not have unpleasant tastes, like the liquid medicine. When
choosing an antacid, there are certain variables that should be taken in consideration, things such as,
ingredients that might trigger allergic reactions, the pH level of the tablet and the cost. Cost is just a minor
thing to consider, but it is important because someone could purchase an antacid for $50 and it might not
even be useful.
Conclusion
The purpose of this investigation was to determine if the different types of commercial antacid
tablets were effective, meaning that they did not neutralize too much or too little of the stomach solution.
As the hypothesis states baking soda (NaHCO3) and Rolaids (CaCO3+ Mg(OH)2) require the most acid
(HCl) to neutralize 1 gram of antacid (see Table 4. for evidence). In addition all antacid are not equally
effective because antacids consist of other chemical ingredients, which may affect the neutralization and
quicken or slow down the process. It is also important to know that if there is a great proportion of the
active ingredient with stronger base in an antacid tablet, the neutralizing power will be greater. After
conducting this investigation the hypothesis was proven to be right. The baking soda neutralizes more
HCl (stomach acid), however it turns out to be that antacid tablets (Eno, Tums, Gaviscon) were much
effective because of the less number of acid require for neutralization. Refer to Table 4. , baking soda
neutralizes a lot of acid and since it is biologically not recommended to completely neutralize the acid
content in the stomach, baking soda is not effective neither beneficial. For a scenario, if a person would
consume too much of baking soda at a daily basis, that individual could actually be in danger of changing
the pH of the stomach and blood. At the same time that individual can become vulnerable of being a
victim of more serious health conditions. This is because the frequent intake of baking soda irritates the
throat and stomach lining. Therefore, antacids are a better choice for stomach ulcers and heartburn,
especially Eno and Tums. These two antacids only require a small amount of HCl (Eno - 43 drops/ gram
& Tums -78 drops/ gram).