State an equation for the reaction of magnesium hydroxide with hydrochloric acid.

Suggest two variables, besides the time of reaction, which the student should have controlled in the experiment to ensure a fair comparison of the antacids.

Calculate the uncertainty in the change in pH.

The student concluded that antacid B was the most effective, followed by A then C and finally D. Discuss two arguments that reduce the validity of the conclusion.

Mg(OH)₂ (s) + 2HCl (aq) → MgCl₂ (aq) + 2H₂O (l)

Accept full or net ionic equation.

Any two from:

volume «of HCl»

concentration «of HCl»/[HCl]

temperature «of HCl»

mass of antacid/tablets

size of antacid particles/tablets

OR

surface area of antacid «particles»/tablets

Accept “number of tablets/different doses”.

Do not accept “same pH meter” OR “initial pH” OR “concentration of antacid/[antacid]”.

A variable must be given so do not accept answers such as “stirring”, “whether tablets are whole or crushed” etc.

[Max 2 Marks]

(±) 0.04

OR

(±) 0.03

Any two of:

uncertainty «(±)0.04/(±)0.03» means A and C cannot be distinguished

each measurement was conducted once

stomach pH should not be raised a lot «so antacid B is not necessarily effective»

mass/number of tablets/dose «of antacid» used was not controlled

actual environment in stomach is different

Accept “amount of tablets” for “dose”.

Do not accept “nature/composition of tablets differs”.

Accept an answer such as “time frame is too short since some antacids could be long-acting drugs if they contain a gelatinisation/delaying agent” but not just “time frame is too short since some antacids could be long-acting drugs”.

[Max 2 Marks]