Sodium bicarbonate
Molar mass: 84.01 g/mol · Class: Ionic salt
Elements: sodium, hydrogen, carbon, oxygen
Structure
The solid is an ionic lattice of Na+ ions and HCO3- (bicarbonate) ions. When heated or mixed with acid, the bicarbonate breaks down to release carbon dioxide gas: the fizz in baking.
Properties
White powder, mildly alkaline in solution
Releases CO2 when heated or mixed with acids
Mild abrasive and odor absorber
Decomposes above about 80 °C
Applications
Baking leavening agent
Antacid for heartburn relief
Deodorizer and gentle cleaner
Fire extinguisher powder ingredient
Very low toxicity, but not harmless in excess: large doses can disturb body salts. Keep antacid use within labeled directions. Do not confuse with baking powder or washing soda (sodium carbonate), which is more caustic.
Data source: IUPAC standard atomic weights 2021; molar mass computed from NaHCO3