Baking Soda - Preparation, Uses, Structure, Properties, FAQs

Q: What is baking soda, and how is it prepared?

Baking soda, chemically known as sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO 3 ), is a white crystalline powder. It is typically produced through a process known as the Solvay process, which involves reacting sodium carbonate with carbon dioxide and water.

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 04:38 PM IST

Ever wonder how cakes become fluffy, how biscuits puff up while baking, how stubborn stains are removed from clothes, or how a sour stomach soothens? The only answer to all these is a white powder called Baking soda, also known as Sodium hydrogen Carbonate. This compound is widely used in industries, households, and laboratories. It reacts with readily available acids like lemon and curd, as it is a mild alkali, and releases carbon dioxide gas. Baking soda is also used in cleansing, fire extinguishers, deodorising, and as medicine. It is a non-toxic and biodegradable compound. It is the basic ingredient of every kitchen.

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What is the chemical name of baking soda?
Preparation of Baking Soda
Properties of Baking Soda
Structure of Baking Soda
Baking soda uses:

What is the chemical name of baking soda?

The chemical compound sodium bicarbonate formula, sometimes known as baking soda formula or bicarbonate of baking soda chemical formula, has the formula NaHCO₃. A sodium cation (Na⁺) and a bicarbonate anion (HCO₃^-) make up this salt. Sodium bicarbonate is a crystalline white substance that frequently appears as a fine powder. It tastes slightly salty and alkaline, similar to washing soda (sodium carbonate).The chemical name of baking soda is sodium hydrogen carbonate.

Nahcolite is the natural mineral form. It is found dissolved in many mineral springs as a component of the mineral natron. Sodium Bicarbonate common name is baking soda or the chemical name of baking soda is sodium bicarbonate. Because of its long history and widespread use, baking soda, bread soda, cooking soda, and bicarbonate of soda are all common names for the salt, which can often be purchased beside baking powder in supermarkets.

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Preparation of Baking Soda

The Solvay process is used to make sodium bicarbonate as well as sodium carbonate. Carbon dioxide, water, ammonia, as well as concentrated brine solution are employed as raw materials in this process. The important chemical reaction used in the production of baking soda (sodium hydrogen carbonate) and sodium carbonate is:

CO₂ + H₂O + NH₃ + NaCl → NaHCO₃ + NH₄Cl

2NaHCO₃ → Na₂CO₃ + CO₂ + H₂O

The carbon dioxide produced is recycled to make NaHCO₃.

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Properties of Baking Soda

It is non-combustible.
Powder dust is not as explosive as other types of dust.
It has a melting point of 500°C and is an odourless white crystalline solid.

Sodium bicarbonate

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Sodium bicarbonate	NaHCO₃
Molar Mass	84.0066 g/ mol
Boiling Point	851°C
Melting Point	50°C
Density	Solids: 2.20 g/cm³

It is basic in nature.

NaHCO₃ + H₂O → H₂CO₃ +NaOH

H₂CO₃ → H₂O + CO₂

The pH of baking soda is 8.3.

Baking soda is sparingly soluble in water.
NaHCO₃ crystallizes in a monoclinic crystal lattice.
When sodium bicarbonate is heated, it decomposes into sodium carbonate, water, and carbon dioxide gas. At temperatures exceeding 80°C, thermal decomposition occurs.

2 NaHCO₃ → Na₂CO₃ + CO₂ + H₂O

Baking soda produces carbon dioxide gas when it combines with acids. The following is the chemical reaction that occurs:

NaHCO₃ + H⁺ → Na⁺ + H₂O + CO₂

Baking soda is mined as well as manufactured in factories. In its mineral form, it is called nahcolite.

Na₂CO₃ + CO₂ + H₂O → 2 NaHCO₃

Structure of Baking Soda

The chemical formula for sodium bicarbonate is NaHCO₃.
It is made up of the sodium cation (Na⁺) and the bicarbonate anion (HCO₃^-).
Its lattice structure is monoclinic.
One sodium atom, one carbon atom, one hydrogen atom, and three oxygen atoms make up this compound.

Structure of Baking Soda

NCERT Chemistry Notes:

Baking soda uses:

Baking soda has antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it an excellent natural solution to a variety of aesthetic problems. It is mildly abrasive, so it will exfoliate the face, feet, hands, and body softly.
Baking soda is used as an antacid to treat indigestion and heartburn. Its fast action reduces stomach acid, providing temporary relief. Its alkaline composition helps to reduce indigestion by neutralising excess hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
It is a household wonder chemical that is generally used as a cleaning agent, a cooking component, and a disinfectant.
It is used to raise flour batter. Baking soda is used to make baking powder, which is made by mixing baking soda with a moderate acid like tartaric acid. In creating bread, cakes, cookies, pancakes, patties, and other baked goods, baking powder is used as a leavening agent (a chemical that releases a gas and causes dough to rise and expand).
Baking soda can be used as a natural pesticide in the garden to kill dangerous insects and fungi that attack plants. It can be mixed into soil to raise the pH level and make the soil alkaline. Alkaline soils are preferred by several plants.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is baking soda, and how is it prepared?

Baking soda, chemically known as sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃), is a white crystalline powder. It is typically produced through a process known as the Solvay process, which involves reacting sodium carbonate with carbon dioxide and water.

2. What are the main uses of baking soda in cooking?

Baking soda is primarily used as a leavening agent in baking. When combined with an acid, it releases carbon dioxide gas, which helps baked goods rise and become fluffy.

3. Can baking soda be used for cleaning purposes?

Yes, baking soda is an excellent natural cleaning agent! Its mild abrasiveness makes it effective for scrubbing surfaces, while its alkaline nature helps neutralize odors and break down dirt and grease. It’s commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms for tasks like cleaning countertops, sinks, and ovens.

4. Is baking soda safe to use in food preparation?

Yes, Baking soda is recognized as safe for consumption by food safety authorities around the world. However, it should be used in appropriate amounts, as excessive consumption can lead to health issues, such as metabolic alkalosis or electrolyte imbalances.

5. How should baking soda be stored?

Baking soda should be stored in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to keep it fresh and effective. Exposure to moisture or air can cause it to lose potency over time.

6. How does baking soda work as a leavening agent in baking?

When baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is mixed with acidic ingredients and heated, it releases carbon dioxide gas. This gas forms bubbles in the batter or dough, causing it to rise and creating a light, fluffy texture in baked goods.

7. Can baking soda be used as an antacid? How does it work?

Yes, baking soda can be used as an antacid. When ingested, it reacts with stomach acid (HCl) to produce salt (NaCl), water, and carbon dioxide. This neutralizes excess stomach acid, providing relief from heartburn and indigestion. However, it should be used cautiously and not as a long-term solution.

8. Why is baking soda effective in extinguishing small fires?

Baking soda is effective in extinguishing small fires because when heated, it decomposes to release carbon dioxide. This CO2 blankets the fire, cutting off its oxygen supply and thus extinguishing it. Additionally, the decomposition is endothermic, absorbing heat from the fire.

9. How does baking soda act as a cleaning agent?

Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive and has a slightly alkaline pH, which helps it dissolve dirt and grease. Its ability to neutralize odors by reacting with acidic and basic odor molecules also makes it effective for cleaning and deodorizing. Additionally, its gentle nature makes it suitable for cleaning delicate surfaces without scratching.

10. What's the difference between baking soda and baking powder?

Baking soda is pure sodium bicarbonate, while baking powder is a mixture of sodium bicarbonate, cream of tartar (an acid), and sometimes cornstarch. Baking soda requires an acidic ingredient to activate, whereas baking powder contains its own acid and only needs moisture and heat to work.

11. What is baking soda and how is it prepared?

Baking soda is the common name for sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3). It's prepared industrially through the Solvay process, which involves reacting sodium chloride, ammonia, and carbon dioxide in water to produce sodium bicarbonate and ammonium chloride. The baking soda is then separated through filtration and purification steps.

12. How does baking soda react with stomach acid, and why is this important?

Baking soda reacts with stomach acid (HCl) according to the equation:

13. How does baking soda interact with acids in cooking?

In cooking, baking soda reacts with acidic ingredients (like buttermilk, yogurt, or vinegar) to produce carbon dioxide gas. This reaction not only helps leaven baked goods but also neutralizes some of the acid, affecting the flavor and texture of the final product. This is why recipes often balance acidic ingredients with baking soda.

14. Why is baking soda sometimes added to toothpaste?

Baking soda is added to toothpaste for several reasons:

15. How does baking soda's structure contribute to its thermal stability?

Baking soda's thermal stability is due to its ionic structure. The strong ionic bonds between the sodium cation (Na+) and bicarbonate anion (HCO3-) require significant energy to break. However, when heated above about 50°C, it begins to slowly decompose, and at around 200°C, it decomposes more rapidly into sodium carbonate, water, and carbon dioxide.

16. What happens when baking soda is heated?

When baking soda is heated, it undergoes thermal decomposition. The reaction is:

17. Can baking soda conduct electricity when dissolved in water?

Yes, when baking soda (NaHCO3) dissolves in water, it dissociates into sodium ions (Na+) and bicarbonate ions (HCO3-). These ions can carry an electric current, making the solution conductive. This property is common to many ionic compounds when dissolved in water.

18. Why is baking soda considered an amphoteric substance?

Baking soda is amphoteric because it can act as both an acid and a base, depending on the reaction conditions. It can accept protons (act as a base) or donate protons (act as an acid) in chemical reactions, making it versatile in various applications.

19. What is the pH of a baking soda solution?

A solution of baking soda in water is slightly alkaline. At room temperature, a 0.1 molar solution of baking soda typically has a pH around 8.3. This mild alkalinity contributes to its effectiveness in neutralizing acids and its use in various applications.

20. How does baking soda react with vinegar, and why is this reaction often used in science experiments?

Baking soda reacts with vinegar (acetic acid) to produce sodium acetate, water, and carbon dioxide gas. The reaction is:

21. How does the structure of baking soda contribute to its properties?

The structure of baking soda (NaHCO3) consists of a sodium ion (Na+) and a bicarbonate ion (HCO3-). This ionic structure allows it to dissolve easily in water and participate in acid-base reactions. The presence of both hydrogen and carbonate in the bicarbonate ion contributes to its amphoteric nature.

22. How does baking soda compare to other carbonate compounds like sodium carbonate (washing soda)?

Baking soda (NaHCO3) is less alkaline than sodium carbonate (Na2CO3, washing soda). Baking soda has one hydrogen atom, making it a bicarbonate, while washing soda has two sodium atoms. This results in different properties:

23. How does baking soda help in relieving insect bites and stings?

Baking soda helps relieve insect bites and stings due to its alkaline nature. Many insect venoms are acidic, so applying a paste of baking soda and water can help neutralize the venom, reducing pain and itching. Its mild anti-inflammatory properties also contribute to soothing the affected area.

24. How does the solubility of baking soda change with temperature?

The solubility of baking soda increases with temperature. At 0°C, about 6.9 grams of baking soda can dissolve in 100 mL of water, while at 20°C, this increases to about 9.6 grams. This property is important in various applications, including cooking and cleaning, where warm water can help dissolve baking soda more effectively.

25. Can baking soda be used to remove odors from refrigerators? How does this work?

Yes, baking soda is effective at removing odors from refrigerators. It works through a process called adsorption, where odor molecules stick to the surface of baking soda particles. Additionally, baking soda can neutralize acidic and basic odor-causing molecules through chemical reactions. Its large surface area and slightly alkaline nature make it particularly effective for this purpose.

26. Why is baking soda sometimes used in swimming pools?

Baking soda is used in swimming pools as a pH buffer. It helps maintain the pool's pH at a slightly alkaline level (around 7.4-7.6), which is comfortable for swimmers and effective for chlorine disinfection. It also increases the water's total alkalinity, which helps prevent rapid pH fluctuations.

27. Can baking soda be used to test for acid rain?

Yes, baking soda can be used in a simple test for acid rain. When acid rain (which contains sulfuric or nitric acid) comes into contact with baking soda, it produces carbon dioxide gas, causing visible bubbling. This reaction demonstrates the neutralization of acids by baking soda and can be used as a qualitative test for acidic precipitation.

28. Why is baking soda sometimes used in agriculture?

Baking soda is used in agriculture for several reasons:

29. What role does baking soda play in the production of crack cocaine, and why is this a concern?

Baking soda is used in the production of crack cocaine to convert cocaine hydrochloride (powder cocaine) into its freebase form. The baking soda reacts with the hydrochloride salt, removing the hydrochloride and leaving behind the freebase cocaine. This is a concern because it makes the drug more potent and addictive, and the easy availability of baking soda contributes to the widespread production of this dangerous drug.

30. Why is baking soda sometimes used in swimming pool maintenance?

Baking soda is used in swimming pool maintenance to:

31. How does baking soda interact with proteins, and why is this important in cooking?

Baking soda can break down proteins by disrupting their hydrogen bonds, a process called alkaline hydrolysis. In cooking, this property is used to tenderize meat and soften legumes. However, it can also destroy some nutrients and affect texture if overused. In baking, it can weaken gluten formation, resulting in more tender baked goods.

32. Can baking soda be used to generate carbon dioxide in a lab setting? How?

Yes, baking soda can be used to generate carbon dioxide in a lab. This is typically done by reacting baking soda with an acid, such as vinegar or hydrochloric acid. The reaction produces carbon dioxide gas, which can be collected and used for various experiments. This method is safe, inexpensive, and commonly used in educational settings to demonstrate gas production and acid-base reactions.

33. How does the crystal structure of baking soda influence its properties?

Baking soda forms monoclinic crystals. This crystal structure influences its properties in several ways:

34. Why is baking soda sometimes added to municipal water supplies?

Baking soda (or similar carbonate compounds) is sometimes added to municipal water supplies to:

35. How does baking soda compare to other bases commonly used in the lab?

Compared to other common laboratory bases like sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or potassium hydroxide (KOH), baking soda (NaHCO3) is:

36. Can baking soda be used to create a buffer solution? How?

Yes, baking soda can be used to create a buffer solution. When combined with its conjugate acid, carbonic acid (H2CO3), it forms a buffer system that can resist changes in pH. This is often done by dissolving baking soda in water and then bubbling CO2 through the solution to form some carbonic acid. The resulting solution can maintain a relatively stable pH around 8.3 when small amounts of acid or base are added.

37. How does baking soda's behavior change in non-aqueous solvents?

In non-aqueous solvents, baking soda's behavior can change significantly:

38. Why is baking soda sometimes used in firefighting?

Baking soda is used in firefighting for several reasons:

39. How does the presence of baking soda affect the freezing point of water?

When baking soda dissolves in water, it lowers the freezing point of the solution. This is due to the colligative property of freezing point depression. The dissolved ions (Na+ and HCO3-) interfere with the formation of ice crystals, requiring a lower temperature for the solution to freeze compared to pure water. The magnitude of this effect depends on the concentration of baking soda in the solution.

40. Can baking soda be used to demonstrate the concept of a limiting reagent? How?

Yes, baking soda can be used to demonstrate the concept of a limiting reagent. A common experiment involves reacting baking soda with vinegar in different ratios. By measuring the amount of CO2 produced (either by volume or by mass loss), students can determine which reagent limits the reaction. This helps illustrate that the reagent completely consumed determines the amount of product formed, regardless of excess amounts of the other reagent.

41. How does baking soda interact with fats and oils?

Baking soda interacts with fats and oils in several ways:

42. Why is baking soda sometimes used in electroplating processes?

Baking soda is used in some electroplating processes for several reasons: