Baking Soda

Baking Soda

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate (IUPAC name: sodium hydrogen carbonate), is a chemical compound with the formula NaHCO3. It is a white solid that is crystalline but often appears as a fine powder. It has a slightly salty, alkaline taste resembling that of washing soda (sodium carbonate).

Pronunciation

Baking Soda: /ˈbeɪkɪŋ ˈsoʊdə/

Etymology

The term "baking soda" is derived from the process of using sodium bicarbonate as a leavening agent in baking. The word "soda" comes from the Old Italian word "soda", referring to all sodium salts.

Uses

Baking soda is used in cooking and baking as a leavening agent. It reacts with acidic components in batters, releasing carbon dioxide, which causes expansion of the batter and forms the characteristic texture and grain in pancakes, cakes, quick breads, and other baked and fried foods.

In medicine, baking soda is used as an antacid to treat heartburn and indigestion. It can also be used as a cleaning agent and in toothpaste.

Related Terms

• Sodium bicarbonate
• Leavening agent
• Antacid
• Heartburn
• Indigestion

See Also

• Baking powder
• Sodium carbonate
• Washing soda

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Baking Soda
• Wikipedia's article - Baking Soda

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