Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), or sodium hydrogen carbonate, also known as baking soda and bicarbonate of soda, is a soluble white anhydrous or crystalline compound, with a slight alkaline taste resembling that of sodium carbonate. It is found in many mineral springs and also produced artificially.
It is also used as an antacid to treat heartburn. The anhydrous form is also used to absorb moisture and odours; a box can be left in the refrigerator for this purpose. Additionally, a paste from baking soda can be very effective when used in cleaning and scrubbing. Used in toothpaste, baking soda helps to gently remove stains, whiten teeth, and freshen breath.
Sodium bicarbonate, when exposed to a moderately strong acid, releases carbon dioxide and water:
It is used in combination with acidic compounds as a leavening agent in baking: some forms of baking powder contain sodium bicarbonate. Formerly, it was used as a source of carbon dioxide for soda water.
Safety
Although sodium bicarbonate is used as an antacid, excess consumption can lower blood pH. Sodium bicarbonate should only be consumed in solution with water.
When using baking powder or bakingsoda in a recipe, make sure to sift or whisk with the other dry ingredients before adding to the batter to ensure uniformity.
Baking powder consists of bakingsoda, one or more acid salts (cream of tartar and sodium aluminum sulfate) plus cornstarch to absorb any moisture so a reaction does not take place until a liquid is added to the batter.
Bakingsoda starts to react and release carbon dioxide gas as soon as it is added to the batter and moistened.
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