Can baking powder be a substitute for alum powder?

No, baking powder cannot be substituted for alum powder. While both are leavening agents, they have very different chemical properties and are used for different purposes.

Here's why:

* Baking powder is a chemical leavening agent that produces carbon dioxide gas when mixed with a liquid and heated. It's primarily used for baking cakes, muffins, and quick breads.

* Alum powder (aluminum sulfate) is used for various purposes, including:

* Pickling: Alum is used to firm the texture of vegetables and add a crispness to pickled foods.

* Water purification: It can help to clarify water and remove impurities.

* Dyeing: Alum is used as a mordant in dyeing to help the dye adhere to the fabric.

* Papermaking: Alum helps to size paper, making it smoother and less absorbent.

Alum powder is not safe to consume and should never be used as a substitute for baking powder in baking.

If you need a leavening agent for baking, stick to baking powder or baking soda.