What is the chemical formula of baking soda?

NaHCO₃

The correct answer is option 3. NaHCO₃.

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, has the chemical formula \(NaHCO_3\).

Sodium is an alkali metal with the chemical symbol Na and atomic number 11. In baking soda, sodium is present in the form of the sodium ion (Na⁺), which is a positively charged ion.

The bicarbonate ion (HCO3⁻) consists of one hydrogen atom (H), one carbon atom (C), and three oxygen atoms (O) arranged in a specific configuration. The bicarbonate ion carries a negative charge.

The chemical formula NaHCO3 indicates that baking soda consists of one sodium ion (Na⁺) and one bicarbonate ion (HCO3⁻) in a one-to-one ratio. This combination of ions results in an electrically neutral compound.

Baking soda is widely used in baking as a leavening agent, which helps dough rise by releasing carbon dioxide gas when heated. It is also used in various other applications, such as cleaning, deodorizing, and as an antacid for treating indigestion.

In summary, the chemical formula \(NaHCO_3\)represents baking soda, which consists of sodium ions (Na⁺) and bicarbonate ions (HCO3⁻) combined in a specific ratio.