Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, is a chemical compound with the formula NaHCO3. It is a white, crystalline solid that is commonly used as a leavening agent in baking, as well as for various other applications, including as an antacid, a cleaning agent, and a fire extinguishing agent.
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Sodium bicarbonate is a weak base that can react with acids to produce carbon dioxide, water, and a salt.
When heated, sodium bicarbonate undergoes thermal decomposition to form sodium carbonate, carbon dioxide, and water.
In the context of 4.2 Classifying Chemical Reactions, sodium bicarbonate can participate in acid-base reactions and decomposition reactions.
Sodium bicarbonate is commonly used as a leavening agent in baking because the carbon dioxide produced during the reaction causes baked goods to rise.
The antacid properties of sodium bicarbonate make it useful for neutralizing excess stomach acid and relieving symptoms of heartburn and indigestion.
Review Questions
Explain how the chemical properties of sodium bicarbonate allow it to be used as a leavening agent in baking.
Sodium bicarbonate is a weak base that can react with acidic ingredients, such as buttermilk or sour cream, in baked goods. When heated, the reaction between the sodium bicarbonate and the acid produces carbon dioxide gas. This gas becomes trapped in the batter or dough, causing it to expand and rise, resulting in a light and fluffy texture in the final baked product.
Describe the acid-base reaction that occurs when sodium bicarbonate is used as an antacid to neutralize excess stomach acid.
Sodium bicarbonate is a weak base that can react with the strong hydrochloric acid present in the stomach. In this acid-base reaction, the sodium bicarbonate neutralizes the excess stomach acid, forming sodium chloride (salt), water, and carbon dioxide. This reaction helps to reduce the acidity in the stomach, providing relief from symptoms of heartburn and indigestion.
Analyze the thermal decomposition of sodium bicarbonate and explain how this reaction can be used in fire extinguishers.
When heated, sodium bicarbonate undergoes a thermal decomposition reaction, where it breaks down into sodium carbonate, carbon dioxide, and water. This reaction occurs at temperatures above 50°C (122°F). In fire extinguishers, sodium bicarbonate is used as an active ingredient because the carbon dioxide produced during the decomposition reaction helps to smother and extinguish the fire by displacing oxygen and cooling the surrounding area.
Related terms
Acid-Base Reaction: A chemical reaction in which an acid and a base react to form a salt and water.
Neutralization Reaction: A type of acid-base reaction in which an acid and a base react to form a salt and water.
Thermal Decomposition: A chemical reaction in which a compound breaks down into simpler substances when heated.