What is the reaction between alcohol and baking soda?

When alcohol (specifically, ethanol) is mixed with baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), a chemical reaction occurs. The products of this reaction are carbon dioxide gas, water, and sodium ethoxide. The chemical equation for this reaction is:

C2H5OH + NaHCO3 → CO2 + H2O + C2H5ONa

In this reaction, the ethanol molecule reacts with the sodium bicarbonate molecule to form carbon dioxide gas, water, and sodium ethoxide. The carbon dioxide gas is released as bubbles, causing the mixture to fizz. The sodium ethoxide is a salt that remains dissolved in the water.

This reaction is commonly used in baking to make cakes, cookies, and other baked goods rise. The carbon dioxide gas bubbles up and causes the batter to expand, creating a light and fluffy texture. Baking soda is also sometimes used as a cleaning agent because it can help to remove dirt and stains.