How to avoid "PHP Extensions “0” must be loaded" errror on magento installation?

Hi all I am installing the magento 1.7.0.2 in ubuntu 12.04 on the xampp 1.8.3-2 and on the next page on installation it gives an error that

PHP Extensions “0” must be loaded

I followed the solution provided here which returns another error displaying a message window saying

The page isn't redirecting properly

Firefox has detected that the server is redirecting the request for this address in a way that will never complete.

This problem can sometimes be caused by disabling or refusing to accept cookies.

I tried clearing the cache but it didn't do anything still the problem occurs.

What should I do now. Any help will be greatfull.

Thanks.