Help from MOM

Milk of magnesia (MOM) and other antacids are bases that relieve heartburn by neutralizing the acid found in the stomach’s gastric juices. When hydrochloric acid and universal indicator are added to milk of magnesia, a dramatic rainbow of colour changes is observed as the antacid neutralizes the simulated stomach acid. This is a great demonstration to teach concepts of acids and bases, solubility, digestion and “antacid-testing” consumer biochemistry.