Question

Which base is used as a remedy for stomach pain and irritation?
(A) $ NaOH $
(B) $ Mg{\left( {OH} \right)_2} $
(C) $ Ca{\left( {OH} \right)_2} $
(D) $ KOH $

Answer 1

Hint: Bases are defined and understood in several ways. But simply, the base is any substance that is bitter and changes red litmus paper to blue litmus paper and the most important base on reaction with acids forms salts.

Complete answer:
Now in the question, we are asked to give the base or figure out the base from the given option which can be used as the remedy for stomach pain and irritation. In our daily life, we also use some home remedies to get rid of something like itching, irritation, suffocation, and for any temporary or basic issue. So, similarly to get rid of the stomach pain people use the bases which are known as antacids. As the word suggests it will oppose the acid. An antacid is a chemical substrate that can reduce or neutralize the acidity in the stomach and raise the $ pH $ value to some appropriate level.
The acidity is the result of the extra gastric acids mainly hydrochloric acid which generally tends to decrease the $ pH $ level. This increase in acidity leads to the formation of ulcers in the mouth as well as the stomach in most of the patients. So, the most commonly used antacids are weak bases such as sodium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, and many more. So, among the following options magnesium hydroxide commonly known as milk of magnesia is used for this purpose.
Therefore, the correct option is (B).

Note:
Some bases like sodium carbonate can also be used but they can make the stomach alkaline and even produce more acid. Metal hydroxides are the best alternatives as they are insoluble and do not increase the $ pH $ value above neutrality.