Citric acid and baking soda a chemical reaction in water?

When citric acid and baking soda are mixed in water, a chemical reaction occurs that produces carbon dioxide gas. This reaction is commonly used in baking to create a leavening agent, which causes baked goods to rise.

The chemical equation for this reaction is:

3NaHCO₃(aq) + C₆H₈O₇(aq) -> 3CO₂(g) + 3H₂O(l) + Na₃C₆H₅O₇(aq)

In this reaction, three molecules of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) react with one molecule of citric acid (C₆H₈O₇) to produce three molecules of carbon dioxide gas (CO₂), three molecules of water (H₂O), and one molecule of sodium citrate (Na₃C₆H₅O₇).

The carbon dioxide gas that is produced in this reaction is responsible for the leavening action in baking. When the mixture of citric acid and baking soda is added to a batter or dough, the carbon dioxide gas bubbles cause the mixture to rise. This is what gives baked goods their light and fluffy texture.

Safety considerations

The reaction between citric acid and baking soda is a safe and common process. However, it is important to note that the reaction can produce a significant amount of carbon dioxide gas, which can be hazardous if inhaled in large quantities. Therefore, it is important to use caution when handling these substances and to avoid breathing in the fumes.