Question

What are the chemical formulas of (a) stomach acid, (b) milk of magnesia, (c) lye, (d) baking soda, and (e) vinegar?

Short answer

(a) HCl, (b) Mg(OH)_2, (c) NaOH, (d) NaHCO_3, (e) CH_3COOH.

Step-by-step solution

Identify Stomach Acid

Stomach acid is another term for hydrochloric acid, which is found in the stomach to aid digestion.

Chemical Formula of Stomach Acid

The chemical formula for stomach acid is \( \text{HCl} \), which stands for hydrochloric acid.

Identify Milk of Magnesia

Milk of Magnesia is a common antacid and laxative.

Chemical Formula of Milk of Magnesia

The active ingredient in Milk of Magnesia is magnesium hydroxide, which has the chemical formula \( \text{Mg(OH)}_2 \).

Identify Lye

Lye is a strongly alkaline substance used in cleaning and soap making.

Chemical Formula of Lye

Lye typically refers to sodium hydroxide, with the chemical formula \( \text{NaOH} \).

Identify Baking Soda

Baking soda is used in baking as a leavening agent.

Chemical Formula of Baking Soda

The chemical formula for baking soda is \( \text{NaHCO}_3 \), which stands for sodium bicarbonate.

Identify Vinegar

Vinegar is a common household acid used in cooking and cleaning.

Chemical Formula of Vinegar

The main component of vinegar is acetic acid, with the chemical formula \( \text{CH}_3\text{COOH} \).

Key concepts

Hydrochloric Acid

Hydrochloric acid is a powerful and corrosive mineral acid with the chemical formula \( \text{HCl} \). Found naturally in gastric acid within the stomach, it assists in breaking down food and killing harmful bacteria. The acidity level of hydrochloric acid in the stomach is crucial for proper digestion.
Hydrochloric acid is also widely used in the industry. It's employed in the production of chlorides, fertilizers, and dyes. In the laboratory, it serves as a reagent for chemical reactions. With its strong nature, safety precautions are essential when handling hydrochloric acid to prevent burns and inhalation hazards.

Magnesium Hydroxide

Magnesium hydroxide, with the chemical formula \( \text{Mg(OH)}_2 \), acts as a common antacid in the famous suspension known as Milk of Magnesia. This compound helps neutralize stomach acid, providing relief from indigestion and heartburn. Due to its laxative properties, it is also effective in relieving constipation.
Magnesium hydroxide is produced by reacting magnesium salts with alkaline water, resulting in a white, powdery substance. It is also utilized in wastewater treatment to neutralize acidic waste. Non-toxic and safe for regular use, magnesium hydroxide is treasured in both households and medical care.

Sodium Hydroxide

Sodium hydroxide is a highly caustic base with the chemical formula \( \text{NaOH} \). Commonly referred to as lye, it is used in soap making, cleaning products, and as a drain cleaner. The ability of sodium hydroxide to react with fats is the science behind soap formation, known as saponification.
In its pure form, sodium hydroxide can be dangerous, causing chemical burns and injuries upon contact. Therefore, personal protective equipment is necessary when handling this compound. Commercially, it is produced through the electrolysis of sodium chloride solution in a process called the chloralkali process.

Sodium Bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate, often known as baking soda, has the chemical formula \( \text{NaHCO}_3 \). It’s a versatile compound that serves a key role in baking, as a leavening agent. Upon heating, it releases carbon dioxide, causing dough or batter to rise, resulting in fluffy baked goods.
Apart from culinary uses, sodium bicarbonate serves multiple purposes in household cleaning, neutralizing odors, and even as an antacid to relieve minor heartburn or indigestion. Its mild abrasiveness makes it suitable for cleaning without scratching surfaces. This adaptability makes baking soda a staple in many homes.

Acetic Acid

Acetic acid, chemically represented as \( \text{CH}_3\text{COOH} \), is the primary component in vinegar. With a distinct sour taste and pungent smell, vinegar is used in cooking to flavor and preserve food. The acid can regulate pH levels and act as a natural disinfectant.
In industry and laboratories, acetic acid plays a significant role as a solvent and a chemical reagent for synthesizing different chemical compounds. The dilute acetic acid found in vinegar is safe for consumption and handling at home, though stronger acetic acid solutions should be used with care.