Baking soda, namely sodium bicarbonate, with molecular formula of NaHCO ₃, is an inorganic salt, white crystalline powder, odorless, alkaline and soluble in water. It decomposes slowly in humid air or hot air to produce carbon dioxide, which is heated to 270 ℃ for complete decomposition. In case of acid, it will decompose strongly to produce carbon dioxide. Sodium ion is the normal need of human body and is generally considered non-toxic. However, excessive intake may cause alkalosis, damage the liver and induce hypertension. Sodium bicarbonate solid begins to decompose gradually above 50 ℃ to produce sodium carbonate, water and carbon dioxide gas. This characteristic is often used as a bulking agent for making biscuits, cakes, steamed bread and bread. Sodium bicarbonate will remain after action, and excessive use will make the finished product have alkaline taste.
Physical properties of baking soda
White crystal, or opaque monoclinic fine crystal, odorless and salty, soluble in water and insoluble in ethanol. The solubility in water is 7.8G (18 ℃) and 16.0g (60 ℃).
Chemical properties of baking soda
It decomposes rapidly under normal temperature and loses its stability when it is heated above 270 ℃ in dry air. It can react with both acid and alkali. React with acid to produce corresponding salt, water and carbon dioxide, and react with alkali to produce corresponding carbonate and water. In addition, it can react with some salts and double hydrolyze with aluminum chloride and aluminum chlorate to produce aluminum hydroxide, sodium salt and carbon dioxide