Hi,

Preparation of Baking Soda :-

Solvay process is used for the production of sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate industrially. In this process carbon dioxide, water, ammonia and brine solution in its concentrated form, are used as raw materials. This process is used mainly because it is inexpensive and less number of raw materials are used to produce necessary chemicals. The important chemical reaction that is used in the production of baking soda and sodium carbonate is:

CO ₂ + H ₂ O + NH ₃ + NaCl → NaHCO ₃ + NH ₄ Cl
2 NaHCO ₃ → Na ₂ CO ₃ + CO ₂ + H ₂ O

Carbon dioxide produced is recycled to produce NaHCO ₃

Properties of Sodium Bicarbonate :-

• It is non-flammable.
• Powder dust is not as explosive.
• It has a melting point of 50 ⁰
• NaHCO ₃ is a white crystalline solid which is odourless.
• It is basic in nature.

Uses of Baking Soda :-

• Reduces the acidity in the stomach
• Acts as an antacid which is used to treat stomach upset and indigestion
• Used in the process of washing as a water softener
• Due to the formation of soapy foam, it is used in fire extinguishers
• Removes the dirt off materials without damaging the properties of the material
• Acts as a pesticide
• Used in baking industries as carbon dioxide is generated (due to the decomposition of NaHCO ₃ ) which helps in the raising of the dough
• It is used in ear drops, cosmetics and personal care products
• It is used as a neutralizer to neutralize the effect of acid

Hope this helps.