Concept:Milk of magnesia is the common name for a suspension of magnesium hydroxide in water.
Explanation:The chemical component of milk of magnesia is magnesium hydroxide, which has the formula
Mg(OH)2.
It is a mild alkali that is widely used as an antacid.
It neutralizes excess hydrochloric acid in the stomach according to the reaction:
Mg(OH)2+2HCl→MgCl2+2H2OThis action helps relieve heartburn and indigestion.
It also acts as a laxative by drawing water into the intestines.
The name “milk” comes from its white, milky appearance when suspended in water.
Now let us examine the other options.
Calcium hydroxide,
Ca(OH)2, is commonly called slaked lime and is used in industry, not as this medicine.
Potassium hydroxide,
KOH, is called caustic potash and is too corrosive to ingest.
Sodium hydroxide,
NaOH, is called caustic soda and is also highly corrosive and unsafe to swallow.
Therefore, the only correct option is the one that names magnesium hydroxide.
Answer:D. magnesium hydroxide.