Leavening Agent: In baking, baking soda reacts with acidic ingredients (like vinegar, lemon juice, or buttermilk) to produce carbon dioxide gas. This gas creates bubbles in the batter, causing it to rise and become light and fluffy when baked.
Cleaning Power: Baking soda is a mild alkali, which gives it cleaning properties. It can be used to:
Deodorize refrigerators and other spaces
Scrub surfaces to remove stains and grime
Clean drains and unclog minor blockages
Neutralizing Odors: Baking soda can neutralize acidic odors, making it useful for absorbing smells in various environments.
Health and Personal Care: In some cases, baking soda is used for:
Relieving heartburn (by neutralizing stomach acid)
Soothing canker sores
Making homemade toothpaste or mouthwash
Soaking feet for relaxation
