Definition

Noun: A white, crystalline, water-soluble powder with the chemical formula NaHCO₃. It is primarily used as a leavening agent in baking, where it reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas, causing dough or batter to rise. It also has applications as an antacid to relieve indigestion and as a component in effervescent drinks and cleaning solutions. Commonly known as baking soda.

Examples of Usage

• The recipe calls for a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda to make the cake fluffy.
• For quick relief from heartburn, you can dissolve half a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda in a glass of water.
• Bicarbonate of soda is a key ingredient in many fire extinguishers for kitchen grease fires.

Advanced Usage

• Chemical and Scientific Context: In chemistry, it is systematically named sodium hydrogen carbonate or sodium bicarbonate. It is a weak base that reacts with acids.
  • The neutralization reaction between acetic acid and bicarbonate of soda produces sodium acetate, water, and carbon dioxide.
• Household and Cleaning: It is valued as a non-toxic, multi-purpose cleaner and deodorizer.
  • A paste made from bicarbonate of soda and water can be used to clean stained surfaces.

Variants and Related Words

• Baking Soda (noun): The most common everyday term, especially in culinary and household contexts.
• Sodium Bicarbonate (noun): The standard chemical and pharmaceutical name.
• Bicarb (noun, informal): A common shortened, informal form.
• Bread Soda (noun): A regional term used in some areas.

Synonyms

• Sodium hydrogen carbonate
• Baking soda (primary synonym in general use)

Related Phrases and Idioms

(This word is a specific chemical compound and does not have associated phrasal verbs or idioms in the conventional sense. Its usage is primarily literal.)

Noun

1. a white soluble compound (NaHCO3) used in effervescent drinks and in baking powders and as an antacid