Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) is a common household chemical known as baking soda, bicarbonate of soda, or bicarb. It has many uses other than baking. It is a component of many products including toothpaste and antacids, swimming pool chemicals, and headache remedies. When baking soda comes in contact with hydrochloric acid, the following reaction occurs:

HCl + NaHCO₃ → NaCl + CO₂ + H₂O

Can you describe what happens to the atoms in this reaction? In your description, include changes in chemical bonds, pH, and kinetic energy. Can you describe why the baking soda is such an effective chemical in the above-mentioned products? You might try this at home: place a pinch of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) on a plate. Add a couple of drops of vinegar. Observe the reaction. Based on the reaction above, can you explain chemically what has happened?

What are the reactants and end products in this reaction? Try to determine where each component of a reactant has gone. Do you recall what is meant by pH? How might the kinetic energy of this reaction be exchanged or lost? Where or in what circumstances around the house is baking soda used? Check out some other unique uses of baking soda by talking with a parent or grandparent; or check out a book that discusses household uses for this chemical. How does vinegar compare to HCl? Can you determine what the end products of the vinegar reaction might be based on the above equation?