What Is Sodium Bicarbonate?
Also known as baking soda, bicarbonate of soda, bread soda and sodium hydrogen carbonate, sodium bicarbonate is a chemical compound that has been used for thousands of years. It can be found naturally as the mineral nahcolite or it can be manufactured. Sodium bicarbonate is used in an array of industries. Features Sodium bicarbonate is a white crystalline solid that is often seen in powdered form and tastes alkaline. It contains antifungal properties. Function Sodium bicarbonate’s uses include as an antacid, a neutralizer of bases and acids, a deodorant, a leavening agent in baking, a metal polisher and a cleaner. It is also used in fire extinguishers. Chemistry The chemical formula for sodium bicarbonate is NaHCO3. This means it contains sodium, hydrogen, carbon and oxygen. History Sodium bicarbonate has been used for many years. In ancient Egypt, natron, a mineral containing sodium bicarbonate, was used as a desiccant and cleanser. Thousands of years later, in 1791, French chemist Ni
