Question

$NaHC{O_3}$ represents the formula of which one of the following?
(A) Sodium carbonate
(B) Baking soda
(C) Sodium acetate
(D) Washing soda

Answer 1

Hint - To solve this problem one should have good command on chemistry, their formulas, properties and uses. In the question we have a formula which has 1 mole of sodium, 1 mole of hydrogen, 1 mole of carbon and 3 moles of oxygen atoms. Let’s use our knowledge and find out the compound having this formula and study its characteristics.

Complete step by step solution:
> Sodium carbonate is the inorganic compound with the formula$N{a_2}C{O_3}$ white water-soluble salts, strongly alkaline taste used as water softener, food processing aid, pH modifier.
> Sodium acetate anhydrous salt form of acetic acid. It dissociates in water to release sodium ions. It is the principal cation of the extracellular fluid and plays a large part in fluid and electrolyte replacement therapies.
$NaHC{O_3}$is also called baking soda, sodium hydrogen carbonate.
> Sodium bicarbonate is a white fine powder having a salty, alkaline taste like washing soda. It is also known as baking soda or cooking soda.
> It is a salt composed of sodium cation and a bicarbonate anion.
On heating baking soda, it is converted into sodium carbonate, recrystallization of sodium carbonate gives washing soda.
So, the correct answer to this question is option B – Baking soda.

Note - Properties of baking soda:
1- It is a white crystal, sparingly soluble in water.
2- It is mild as well as a non- corrosive base.
3-When sodium hydrogen carbonate is heated it gets decomposed to give out sodium carbonate with evolution of carbon dioxide gas from it.
4-It is used as an antacid to reduce acidity from the stomach.
5-Used in making baking powder.
6- Used to treat heartburn, mouthwash, deodorant.