Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) is a white crystalline powder commonly known to as baking soda. It is classified as an acid salt, formed by combining an acid (carbonic) and abase (sodium hydroxide), and it reacts with other chemicals as a mild alkali. At temperatures above 300°F (149°C), sodium bicarbonate decomposes into sodium carbonate (a more stable substance), water, and carbon dioxide.

The native chemical and physical properties of sodium bicarbonate account for its wide range of applications, including cleaning, deodorizing, buffering, and fire extinguishing. Sodium bicarbonate neutralizes odors chemically, rather than masking or absorbing them. Consequently, it is used in bath salts and deodorant body powders. Sodium bicarbonate tends to maintain a pH of 8.1 (7 is neutral) even when acids, which lower pH, or bases, which raise pH, are added to the solution. Its ability to tabletize makes it a good effervescent ingredient in antacids and...