Sodium bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate is primarily used in cooking (baking) where it reacts with other components to release carbon dioxide, that helps dough "rise." The acidic compounds that induce this reaction include phosphates, cream of tartar, lemon juice, yogurt, buttermilk, cocoa, vinegar, etc., hence sodium bicarbonate can be substituted for baking powder provided sufficient acid reagent is also added to the recipe.[3] Many forms of baking powder contain sodium bicarbonate combined with one or more acidic phosphates or cream of tartar. Miscellaneous uses Baking soda has many other miscellaneous uses: [edit] Medical uses Sodium bicarbonate is used as an antacid to treat acid indigestion and heartburn[6] An aqueous solution is administered intravenously for cases of acidosis, or when there is insufficient sodium or bicarbonate ions in the blood.[7] This compound has also been used as for patients with ureterosigmoidostomy.[citation needed] Adverse reactions to emergency administration include congestive heart failure, with edema secondary to sodium overload, and the metabolic complication of hyperosmolarity, metabolic acidosis, and hypernatremia.[citation needed] [edit] As a cleaning agent * A paste from baking soda can be very effective when used in cleaning and scrubbing. * For cleaning of aluminium objects it is to be discouraged as it attacks the thin unreactive protective oxide layer of this otherwise very reactive metal. * A solution in warm water will remove the tarnish from silver when the silver is in contact with a piece of aluminium foil[1]