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Which of the following is the chemical formula of baking soda?
Na2CO3⋅10H2O
NaOH
CaOCl2
NaHCO3
NaHCO3
Baking soda, chemically known as sodium bicarbonate, is represented by the formula NaHCO3. It acts as a mild, non-corrosive base used extensively in culinary applications for leavening dough and batter.
Baking soda, chemically known as sodium bicarbonate, is represented by the formula NaHCO3. It acts as a mild, non-corrosive base used extensively in culinary applications for leavening dough and batter.
Think of baking soda as an 'instant gas factory'; when it gets warm in the oven, it releases tiny bubbles of carbon dioxide that act like thousands of microscopic balloons pushing the cake to rise.
Remember 'Bicarbonate has a Hydrogen (bi-H-carbonate)'.
NaHCO3 — Chemical formula for Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda)
2NaHCO3→Na2CO3+H2O+CO2 — Thermal decomposition reaction
When heated or reacted with an acid, NaHCO3 undergoes thermal decomposition or neutralization to release carbon dioxide gas. The reaction is: 2NaHCO3ΔNa2CO3+H2O+CO2. The evolution of CO2 bubbles creates air pockets, which causes the dough to rise.
Sodium bicarbonate is an amphoteric compound, reacting with both acids and bases.
It is a white crystalline solid, often found as a fine powder.
It is also known as sodium hydrogen carbonate.
Acts as a leavening agent.
Acts as an antacid to neutralize stomach acidity.
Excessive consumption can lead to alkalosis.
May leave a soapy taste if not neutralized properly in recipes.
Leavening agent in baking.
Ingredient in fire extinguishers to release CO2.
Option A (Na2CO3⋅10H2O) is Washing Soda (Sodium carbonate decahydrate).
Option B (NaOH) is Caustic Soda (Sodium hydroxide).
Option C (CaOCl2) is Bleaching Powder (Calcium oxychloride).
D is correct — The chemical formula of baking soda is NaHCO3.
Always distinguish between Baking Soda (NaHCO3) and Washing Soda (Na2CO3⋅10H2O) as this is a frequently tested point in competitive exams.