Overview

Potassium bicarbonate (poe-TAS-ee-yum buy-KAR-bo-nate) is a colorless crystalline solid or white powder with no odor and a salty taste. It occurs naturally in salt beds, sea water, silicate rocks, and a number of foods, primarily fruits and vegetables. Potassium bicarbonate is also present in the tissues of humans and other animals, where it is involved in a number of essential biological processes, including digestion, muscle contraction, and heartbeat. It is used primarily in cooking and baking, as a food additive, and in fire extinguishers.

How It Is Made

Potassium bicarbonate is made by passing carbon dioxide gas through an aqueous solution of potassium carbonate: K₂CO₃ + CO₂ + H₂O → 2KHCO₃

Key Facts

Other Names:

Potassium acid carbonate; potassium hydrogen carbonate

Formula:

KHCO₃

Elements:

Potassium, hydrogen, carbon, oxygen

Compound Type:

Acid salt (inorganic)

State:

Solid

Molecular Weight:

100.12 g/mol

Melting Point:

decomposes above 100°C (212°F)

Boiling Point: