Step 1: Concept
Antacids vary in their onset and duration of action based on their solubility and chemical reactivity with gastric hydrochloric acid.
Step 2: Meaning
Rapid onset refers to how quickly the substance begins to neutralize the stomach acid after ingestion.
Step 3: Analysis
Sodium bicarbonate is highly water-soluble and reacts almost instantaneously with HCl to neutralize it. Magnesium and Calcium compounds react moderately fast, while Aluminium compounds are the slowest.
Step 4: Conclusion
Due to high solubility and immediate chemical reaction, sodium-containing antacids provide the fastest relief.
Final Answer: (C)