What is the chemical formula for baking soda?

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Multiple Choice

What is the chemical formula for baking soda?

Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate, which pairs a sodium ion with the bicarbonate ion (HCO3−). The formula NaHCO3 shows exactly one Na+ for each HCO3−, so it’s the correct representation of baking soda. In baking, it acts as a mild base and leavening agent: when it encounters acid in the batter, it produces carbon dioxide gas, which creates bubbles and helps the dough rise. It also can decompose on heating to release CO2, further aiding leavening. The other formulas correspond to different substances: Na2CO3 is sodium carbonate, NaCl is table salt, and H2SO4 is sulfuric acid.

Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate, which pairs a sodium ion with the bicarbonate ion (HCO3−). The formula NaHCO3 shows exactly one Na+ for each HCO3−, so it’s the correct representation of baking soda. In baking, it acts as a mild base and leavening agent: when it encounters acid in the batter, it produces carbon dioxide gas, which creates bubbles and helps the dough rise. It also can decompose on heating to release CO2, further aiding leavening. The other formulas correspond to different substances: Na2CO3 is sodium carbonate, NaCl is table salt, and H2SO4 is sulfuric acid.

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