The Probert Encyclopaedia of Science & Technology

SODIUM BICARBONATE

Sodium bicarbonate (also known as bicarbonate of soda and baking soda) is a white, water-soluble solid with the formula NaHCO3, used in effervescent drinks, antacid indigestion relief, soda-acid fire extinguishers and baking powder. Tarnished silver placed on aluminium foil in a container and covered with a hot solution of sodium bicarbonate will be cleaned as the sodium bicarbonate solution generates an electro-chemical reaction transferring the sulphur (the black sulphide of the tarnish) from the silver to the aluminium, leaving the original silver in place. Sodium bicarbonate can also be used as a de-odoriser in solution form, and dry, shaken onto fabrics and after a while vacuumed off.
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