Sodium Bicarbonate, 500gm Merck, Germany

• Synonyms: Sodium hydrogen carbonate
• Chemical Formula: NahCO3
• Storage class: 10 – 13 Other liquids and solids
• WGK: WGK 1 slightly hazardous to water
• Storage: Store at 2°C to 30°C.
• Brand: Merck, Germany

Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda or bicarbonate of soda, is a versatile compound with various practical uses in everyday life. Here are some key uses and properties of sodium bicarbonate:

1. Baking: Sodium bicarbonate is widely used as a leavening agent in baking. When combined with acidic ingredients such as buttermilk, yogurt, or vinegar, it produces carbon dioxide gas, which causes the dough to rise and gives baked goods a light and fluffy texture.

2. Cleaning: Sodium bicarbonate is an effective and environmentally friendly cleaning agent. It can be used to scrub and deodorize surfaces, remove stains from fabrics, clean appliances, and neutralize odors in refrigerators, carpets, and upholstery.

3. Personal Care: Sodium bicarbonate is used in personal care products such as toothpaste and mouthwash for its abrasive and deodorizing properties. It can also be added to bathwater to soothe skin irritations and relieve itching.

4. Antacid: Sodium bicarbonate is commonly used as an antacid to relieve heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux. It works by neutralizing excess stomach acid and providing temporary relief from discomfort.

5. Fire Extinguisher: Sodium bicarbonate can be used as a fire extinguisher for small grease and electrical fires. When heated, it releases carbon dioxide gas, which helps smother the flames by displacing oxygen.

6. Medical Uses: Sodium bicarbonate is used in medical settings to treat certain medical conditions, such as metabolic acidosis (a condition characterized by too much acid in the body) and to alkalinize the urine in cases of urinary tract infections or drug overdose.

7. Pool Maintenance: Sodium bicarbonate is used in swimming pools and spas to raise the alkalinity of the water, stabilize the pH levels, and prevent corrosion of equipment.

8. Deodorizing: Sodium bicarbonate is an effective natural deodorizer. It can be sprinkled in shoes, trash cans, and litter boxes to neutralize odors and absorb moisture.

Overall, sodium bicarbonate is a versatile and widely used compound that plays a variety of roles in baking, cleaning, personal care, and other practical applications. It is generally considered safe when used in appropriate quantities and by-product instructions. However, excessive ingestion or inhalation of sodium bicarbonate can lead to adverse health effects, so it’s essential to use it responsibly and store it securely out of reach of children and pets.