Write the balanced chemical reaction of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and vinegar (acetic acid).
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: NaHCO3(s)+CH3COOH(aq)→CH3COONa(aq)+H2O(l)+CO2(g)
The balanced chemical reaction between baking soda (sodium bicarbonate, NaHCO₃) and vinegar (acetic acid, CH₃COOH) can be represented as follows:
[
\text{NaHCO}_3 (s) + \text{CH}_3\text{COOH} (aq) \rightarrow \text{CH}_3\text{COONa} (aq) + \text{H}_2\text{O} (l) + \text{CO}_2 (g)
]
Explanation:
- Reactants:
- Sodium Bicarbonate (NaHCO₃): This is a white, crystalline solid commonly known as baking soda. It is a weak base.
- Acetic Acid (CH₃COOH): This is the main component of vinegar. It is a weak acid.
- Chemical Reaction:
- When sodium bicarbonate is mixed with acetic acid, an acid-base reaction occurs. Sodium bicarbonate (the base) reacts with acetic acid (the acid), resulting in the formation of sodium acetate (CH₃COONa), water (H₂O), and carbon dioxide (CO₂).
- Balancing the Equation:
- To balance the reaction, we ensure that the number of atoms of each element on the reactants side equals the number on the products side. In this case, one sodium (Na), one carbon (C), three hydrogens (H), and three oxygens (O) from sodium bicarbonate and acetic acid yield one sodium, two carbons, four hydrogens, and three oxygens in the products.
- Observations:
- When these two substances are mixed, the reaction produces bubbles of carbon dioxide gas, which is responsible for the fizzing and bubbling observed. This reaction is often used in baking, where the carbon dioxide gas helps to leaven the dough.
- Applications:
- This reaction is not only useful in baking but also serves in various cleaning applications due to the effervescence produced by the release of carbon dioxide, which helps to lift dirt and grime.
Overall, the reaction between baking soda and vinegar illustrates a classic acid-base reaction with practical applications in cooking and cleaning.