Which of the following is the chemical name of baking soda?
Sodium hydrogen carbonate
Understanding the Chemical Name of Baking Soda
Baking soda is a common household item used in baking, cleaning, and even as a deodorant. While commonly known by its simple name, it also has a specific chemical name that describes its composition.
Identifying Baking Soda Chemically
The chemical formula for baking soda is $\text{NaHCO}_3$. This formula tells us which elements make up the compound and in what proportion.
- $\text{Na}$ represents Sodium.
- $\text{H}$ represents Hydrogen.
- $\text{C}$ represents Carbon.
- $\text{O}$ represents Oxygen.
Based on this chemical formula, the chemical name for baking soda is sodium hydrogen carbonate. It is also widely known by another name, sodium bicarbonate.
Analyzing the Given Options
Let's look at the options provided and see which one matches the correct chemical name for baking soda:
- Sodium hydrogen carbonate: This name corresponds directly to the chemical formula $\text{NaHCO}_3$.
- Sulphate: Sulphate is a polyatomic ion with the formula $\text{SO}_4^{2-}$. Compounds containing this ion are called sulphates (e.g., Sodium sulphate is $\text{Na}_2\text{SO}_4$). Sulphate is not baking soda.
- Calcium hydroxide: The chemical formula for Calcium hydroxide is $\text{Ca(OH)}_2$. It is commonly known as slaked lime. This is not baking soda.
- Sodium carbonate: The chemical formula for Sodium carbonate is $\text{Na}_2\text{CO}_3$. It is commonly known as washing soda or soda ash. This is not baking soda.
Comparing the options with the known chemical name of baking soda, we find that "Sodium hydrogen carbonate" is the correct chemical name.
Conclusion
The chemical name for baking soda is sodium hydrogen carbonate, corresponding to the chemical formula $\text{NaHCO}_3$. This name accurately reflects the presence of sodium, hydrogen, and the carbonate group ($\text{CO}_3^{2-}$) in the compound.
Revision Table: Common Chemical Names
| Common Name | Chemical Name | Chemical Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Baking Soda | Sodium hydrogen carbonate (or Sodium bicarbonate) | $\text{NaHCO}_3$ |
| Washing Soda | Sodium carbonate | $\text{Na}_2\text{CO}_3$ |
| Slaked Lime | Calcium hydroxide | $\text{Ca(OH)}_2$ |
| Quicklime | Calcium oxide | $\text{CaO}$ |
| Table Salt | Sodium chloride | $\text{NaCl}$ |
| Bleaching Powder | Calcium oxychloride | $\text{CaOCl}_2$ |
Additional Information on Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate
Sodium hydrogen carbonate ($\text{NaHCO}_3$) is an amphoteric compound, meaning it can react with both acids and bases. Its most famous reaction in baking is with acidic ingredients (like vinegar, buttermilk, or cream of tartar). This reaction produces carbon dioxide gas, which causes dough or batter to rise, making baked goods light and fluffy.
The reaction with an acid (represented as $\text{HA}$) can be written as:
$\text{NaHCO}_3\text{(s)} + \text{HA(aq)} \rightarrow \text{NaA(aq)} + \text{H}_2\text{O(l)} + \text{CO}_2\text{(g)}$
The release of $\text{CO}_2$ gas is key to its leavening action.
Important Questions from Organic Chemistry
Which of the hydrocarbons are arranged as per the increasing order of their boiling points?
Which among the following statements with respect to carbon is/are correct?
1. Carbon forms the basis for all living organisms and many things we use
2. Carbon shows tetra-valency and the property of catenation
3. Carbon forms covalent bonds with itself and other elements
4. Carbon forms compounds containing triple and tetra bonds between carbon atoms
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Which one of the following cell organelles does NOT possess nucleic acid?
Which one of the following is NOT a synthetic detergent?
Name the densest stable element known on earth.
