question_answer

  A compound 'A' is used in fire extinguishers as an antacid and its small amount is also used in making bakery items. Identify the compound and also explain the reason for above mentioned uses of the compound 'A'.  

Answer:

               Compound 'A' is sodium hydrogen carbonate -NaHCO3. (i) It is used in fire extinguishers because it produces CO2 gas on reaction with acid. H2SO4 + 2NaHCO3 Na2SO4 + 2H2O + 2CO2,              (ii) It is used as an antacid because it neutralizes excess acid (HCl) present in stomach.              HCl + NaHCO3  NaCI + H2O + CO2 (iii) It is used in making bakery items because on reaction with acid it produces CO2 gas which makes bread, cakes, etc., soft and spongy. NaHCO3 + H+ H2O + CO2 ­ + Na-salt