*Sodium Bicarbonate* — also called *Baking Soda* or *NaHCO3*
Main Uses*
1. *Food*: Leavening agent. Reacts with acids to release CO2 → makes cakes, bread, cookies rise. Also E500ii food additive.
2. *Baking*: Neutralizes acidic ingredients like buttermilk, yogurt, vinegar
3. *Cleaning*: Mild abrasive + deodorizer. Removes stains, grease, odors
4. *Personal care*: Toothpaste, deodorant, bath soak, antacid for heartburn
5. *Medical*: Antacid, used to treat acidosis, in dialysis.
Sodium bicarbonate is a white, alkaline powder best known as baking soda. It’s a leavening agent, cleaner, deodorizer, and antacid because it neutralizes acids and releases CO2.