What is baking powder used for?

Baking powder is a common leavening agent used in baking. It is responsible for making baked goods rise. It achieves this by releasing carbon dioxide gas when mixed with liquid, which causes air pockets to form in the dough or batter, resulting in a lighter and fluffier texture. Baking powder is typically made from a combination of baking soda, an acid (such as cream of tartar or monocalcium phosphate), and a drying agent (such as cornstarch or rice flour). When baking powder comes into contact with liquid, the acid reacts with the baking soda to produce carbon dioxide gas, which then becomes trapped in the dough or batter. This reaction helps baked goods rise during the baking process.