Sodium Carbonate vs. Sodium Bicarbonate — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on November 3, 2023
Sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) is commonly known as washing soda. Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) is baking soda, often used in cooking. Both differ chemically and in uses.
Difference Between Sodium Carbonate and Sodium Bicarbonate
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Sodium Carbonate and Sodium Bicarbonate are both sodium salts, but they have distinct chemical structures and uses. Sodium Carbonate, also termed washing soda, is a salt of carbonic acid, represented by the formula Na2CO3. In contrast, Sodium Bicarbonate, familiarly known as baking soda, has the formula NaHCO3 and is utilized extensively in the culinary world.
In the realm of household chores, Sodium Carbonate is a potent cleaning agent, particularly for laundry, owing to its alkalinity. Sodium Bicarbonate, meanwhile, is a mild alkali that can neutralize acids and break down proteins, making it effective in baking to help dough rise.
From a medicinal viewpoint, Sodium Bicarbonate is often taken as an antacid to treat heartburn and indigestion. Sodium Carbonate, on the other hand, is not typically ingested due to its stronger alkaline nature.
Environmentally, Sodium Carbonate is used in the glass, soap, and textile industries. Sodium Bicarbonate boasts a more diverse application range, from fire extinguishers to personal care products, highlighting their distinct characteristics and purposes.
In summary, while Sodium Carbonate and Sodium Bicarbonate might share sodium as a component, their chemical makeup, properties, and applications set them apart in noteworthy ways.
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Comparison Chart
Chemical Formula
Na2CO3
NaHCO3
Common Name
Washing soda
Baking soda
Alkalinity
Strong alkali
Mild alkali
Primary Use
Cleaning, particularly for laundry
Baking, antacid
Medicinal Use
Not typically ingested
Taken as an antacid
Compare with Definitions
Sodium Carbonate
Compound with the formula Na2CO3.
The reaction of sodium carbonate with acid yields salt and carbon dioxide.
Sodium Bicarbonate
Commonly referred to as baking soda.
A pinch of sodium bicarbonate in the batter ensures fluffy pancakes.
Sodium Carbonate
Alkaline substance also known as washing soda.
Sodium carbonate can remove stubborn stains from clothing.
Sodium Bicarbonate
Employed in fire extinguishers due to its ability to release CO2.
The sodium bicarbonate in the fire extinguisher suffocated the kitchen flames.
Sodium Carbonate
Can be derived from the ashes of certain plants.
Historically, sodium carbonate was extracted from the ashes of seaweeds and other plants.
Sodium Bicarbonate
A white crystalline compound used for baking and as an antacid.
She added sodium bicarbonate to the dough to make it rise.
Sodium Carbonate
Used in the manufacture of glass and soap.
Sodium carbonate lowers the melting point of sand in glass production.
Sodium Bicarbonate
Mild alkali that can neutralize acids.
Taking sodium bicarbonate can provide relief from heartburn.
Sodium Carbonate
A white crystalline salt used primarily as a cleaning agent.
Many laundry detergents contain sodium carbonate to enhance their cleaning power.
Sodium Bicarbonate
Chemical formula is NaHCO3.
When sodium bicarbonate reacts with acid, it releases carbon dioxide gas.
Common Curiosities
Can sodium carbonate soften water?
Yes, sodium carbonate can act as a water softener, particularly in laundry.
Is sodium bicarbonate the same as baking powder?
No, while sodium bicarbonate is baking soda, baking powder contains additional acidifying agents.
Can sodium carbonate be used as an antacid?
Sodium carbonate is too alkaline and not typically used as an antacid; sodium bicarbonate is more suitable.
What's the primary use of sodium bicarbonate in the kitchen?
Sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, is mainly used as a leavening agent in baking.
Is it safe to ingest sodium carbonate?
Sodium carbonate is not meant for ingestion in large amounts; it's too alkaline.
Can I use sodium carbonate in baking?
No, for baking, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) is the appropriate choice.
What happens when sodium bicarbonate is heated?
Sodium bicarbonate decomposes into sodium carbonate, water, and carbon dioxide when heated.
Is sodium carbonate used in the food industry?
Yes, but sparingly, primarily as a food additive or pH regulator.
Does sodium bicarbonate have cleaning properties?
Yes, sodium bicarbonate can be used as a gentle cleaning agent for surfaces and odors.
How does sodium bicarbonate affect pH levels?
Sodium bicarbonate is a mild alkali, so it can raise pH levels by neutralizing acids.
Can sodium bicarbonate whiten teeth?
Yes, many believe sodium bicarbonate can help in teeth whitening, but it should be used cautiously.
Can I replace baking soda with washing soda in recipes?
No, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and sodium carbonate (washing soda) have different properties and shouldn't be interchanged.
How is sodium bicarbonate produced commercially?
It's usually produced by the Solvay process or from natural deposits of nahcolite.
Where can sodium carbonate be naturally found?
Sodium carbonate can be derived from the ashes of certain plants or from mineral deposits.
Can I use sodium carbonate to adjust pool pH?
Yes, sodium carbonate can raise the pH level in pools by neutralizing acidic conditions.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
