n Alka-Seltzer tablet is a type of over-the-counter medication that is used to relieve indigestion, heartburn, and other digestive complaints. When an Alka-Seltzer tablet is dropped into water, it begins to fizz and release bubbles of gas. This fizzing reaction is a result of the combination of two active ingredients in the tablet: citric acid and sodium bicarbonate.

Citric acid is a weak acid that is commonly found in citrus fruits. It is a molecule that contains three carboxyl groups, which can release protons (hydrogen ions) when they react with a base.

Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, is a compound that is commonly used in baking as a leavening agent. It is a base, meaning that it can accept protons from an acid.

When an Alka-Seltzer tablet is dropped into water, the citric acid and sodium bicarbonate react to form sodium citrate, water, and carbon dioxide gas. The reaction can be represented by the following chemical equation:

C6H8O7 (aq) + NaHCO3 (aq) → Na3C6H5O7 (aq) + H2O (l) + CO2 (g)

This reaction is an example of a neutralization reaction, in which an acid and a base react to form a salt and water. The carbon dioxide gas is produced as a byproduct of the reaction and is what causes the fizzing and bubbling that is observed when an Alka-Seltzer tablet is dropped into water.

The fizzing reaction of an Alka-Seltzer tablet is a result of the release of carbon dioxide gas, which forms bubbles in the water. The rate of the reaction and the amount of carbon dioxide gas produced can be influenced by several factors, including the temperature and pH of the water, the surface area of the tablet, and the concentration of the reactants.

In conclusion, the fizzing reaction of an Alka-Seltzer tablet is a result of the chemical reaction between citric acid and sodium bicarbonate, which produce sodium citrate, water, and carbon dioxide gas. The release of carbon dioxide gas forms bubbles in the water, creating the fizzing effect. The rate of the reaction and the amount of carbon dioxide gas produced can be influenced by several factors, including the temperature and pH of the water, the surface area of the tablet, and the concentration of the reactants.