Chemical Name: Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate, Baking Soda, Bicarbonate of Soda, Cooking Soda
Chemical Formula: NaHCO3
CAS Number: 144-55-8
Appearance: White crystals
Packaging: Jute bags, Bulk
Definition
Sodium bicarbonate, known as baking soda or bicarbonate of soda, is a chemical compound with the formula NaHCO3.
It is a salt composed of a sodium cation (Na+) and a bicarbonate anion (HCO3−).
Application Area
In cooking, baking soda is primarily used as a leavening agent. When it reacts with an acid, carbon dioxide is released, causing the batter to expand and creating the characteristic texture and grain in pancakes, cakes, quick breads, soda bread, and other baked and fried foods. The acid-base reaction is generally as follows:
NaHCO3 + H+ → Na+ + CO2 + H2O
Acidic substances that stimulate this reaction include hydrogen phosphates, cream of tartar, lemon juice, yogurt, buttermilk, cocoa, and vinegar. Baking soda can be combined with acidic yeast to produce a lighter product with a less acidic taste.
Sodium bicarbonate is added to swimming pools, spas, and garden ponds to increase pH.
Sodium bicarbonate mixed with water can be used as an antacid to treat acid indigestion and heartburn. Its reaction with stomach acid produces salt, water, and carbon dioxide:
NaHCO3 + HCl → NaCl + H2O + CO2 (g)
A mixture of sodium bicarbonate and polyethylene glycol, such as PegLyte, dissolved in water and taken orally, is an effective gastrointestinal lavage preparation and laxative used before procedures such as gastrointestinal surgery and gastroscopy.