Overview

Sodium bicarbonate (SO-dee-um bye-KAR-bun-ate) is a white, odorless, crystalline solid or powder that is stable in dry air, but that slowly decomposes in moist air to form sodium carbonate. The compound's primary uses are as an additive in human and animal food products.

Key Facts

Other Names:

Bicarbonate of soda; baking soda

Formula:

NaHCO₃

Elements:

Sodium, hydrogen, carbon, oxygen

Compound Type:

Acid salt (inorganic)

State:

Solid

Molecular Weight:

84.01 g/mol

Melting Point:

about 50°C (120°F); decomposes

Boiling Point:

Not applicable; decomposes

Solubility:

Soluble in water; insoluble in ethyl alcohol

Sodium bicarbonate has been used by humans for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptian documents mention the use of a sodium bicarbonate and sodium chloride solution in the mummification of the dead. For centuries, people around the world have used sodium bicarbonate as a leavening agent for baking. A leavening agent is a substance that causes dough...