Soda is the common name for a group of compounds that contain sodium. These sodium compounds are manufactured from common salt (NaCl), which is made up of sodium and chlorine. See Sodium .
A common sodium compound is sodium carbonate, (Na2CO3) known as sal soda, washing soda, and soda ash. It comes in crystals or white powder and has a strong alkaline reaction. This means that it neutralizes acids. Sodium carbonate is used in the manufacture of glass, soap, and paper. It is also used as a disinfectant, a cleaning agent, and a water softener.
Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) is a popular soda used in cooking and in medicines. It is also known as baking soda or saleratus. Baking powder contains sodium bicarbonate, which acts as a leavening agent because it causes bread, biscuits, or pastries to rise in baking. Seidlitz powders also contain sodium bicarbonate. People use Seidlitz powders to relieve excess stomach acid. See Baking powder .
Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a sodium compound also known as caustic soda or lye. It is widely used in the manufacture of industrial chemicals, rayon, paper, and soap. The compound is also used in the production of aluminum and in petroleum refining.
