Question

State the chemical property in which the following uses of baking soda are based upon as a constituent in making baking powder.

Answer 1

Chemical Property: Thermal Decomposition

• Baking powder contains baking soda (NaHCO₃) and a mild acid (like tartaric acid).
• When heated or mixed with water, baking soda decomposes, releasing carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas, which makes the dough rise.
• Reaction:
  \[\ce{2NaHCO3 ->[heat] Na2CO3 + H2O + CO2↑}\]