Decomposition of Sodium Bicarbonate

2NaHCO3 → Na2CO3 + H2O + CO2

Overview

Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) decomposes when heated above 50 C into sodium carbonate, water, and carbon dioxide. This thermal decomposition is the key reaction in baking, where the released CO2 gas creates the bubbles that make baked goods rise.

Participants

Role Substance Coefficient State
Reactant Sodium Bicarbonate NaHCO₃ 2 (s)
Product Sodium Carbonate Na₂CO₃ 1 (s)
Product Water H₂O 1 (g)
Product Carbon Dioxide CO₂ 1 (g)

Everyday Example

When baking soda is added to cake batter and heated in the oven, this decomposition releases CO2 bubbles that make the cake fluffy and light.

Industrial Importance

This reaction is fundamental to the baking industry. Sodium bicarbonate is also used in fire extinguishers, where the CO2 released helps smother flames.

Properties

Type
Decomposition
Reversible
No
Energy
Endothermic
ΔH
129.0 kJ/mol

Related Reactions

Cracking of Octane (Thermal Cracking) Decomposition of Ammonium Nitrate Decomposition of Barium Peroxide Decomposition of Calcium Carbonate (Calcination) Decomposition of Calcium Hypochlorite Decomposition of Carbonic Acid Decomposition of Hydrogen Peroxide Decomposition of Iron(II,III) Oxide (Direct Reduction) Decomposition of Nitroglycerin Decomposition of Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Decomposition of Sodium Bicarbonate?
The balanced equation is: 2NaHCO₃ → Na₂CO₃ + H₂O + CO₂.
What type of reaction is Decomposition of Sodium Bicarbonate?
Decomposition of Sodium Bicarbonate is a decomposition reaction.
Is Decomposition of Sodium Bicarbonate exothermic or endothermic?
Decomposition of Sodium Bicarbonate is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 129.0 kJ/mol.