Question:

Milk of Magnesia is chemically known as

Show Hint

Many pharmaceutical preparations have common (trade-like) names that hide a simple chemical formula. "Milk of Magnesia" is one such classic preparation.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • Magnesium Carbonate
  • Magnesium Hydroxide
  • Magnesium Trisilicate
  • Magnesium Sulphate
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Concept:
Many pharmaceutical preparations have common (trade-like) names that hide a simple chemical formula. "Milk of Magnesia" is one such classic preparation.

Step 1: Milk of Magnesia is an aqueous suspension of magnesium hydroxide, Mg(OH)2, which gives it its characteristic milky white appearance.

Step 2: It is used both as an antacid (it neutralises stomach acid) and, in larger doses, as an osmotic laxative.

Why the others are wrong: Magnesium carbonate and magnesium trisilicate are other antacids but are not Milk of Magnesia. Magnesium sulphate (Epsom salt) is a saline purgative. The specific compound in Milk of Magnesia is magnesium hydroxide.

Answer: Option (2) — Magnesium Hydroxide.
Was this answer helpful?
0
0