The Chemical formula of baking powder is (NaHCO3).
Characteristics of baking powder
| Characteristic | Description |
| Composition | A mixture of a base (usually sodium bicarbonate), an acid (usually cream of tartar), and a filler (usually cornstarch) |
| Leavening action | · Double-acting:
produces gas bubbles both when mixed with wet ingredients and when exposed to heat in the oven |
| · Single-acting:
produces gas bubbles only when mixed with wet ingredients |
|
| Purpose | To make baked goods rise by producing carbon dioxide gas bubbles |
| Flavor | Generally neutral in flavor |
| Appearance | White, fine powder |
| Storage | Should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture from activating the leavening action prematurely |
| Substitutions | Can be substituted with baking soda and an acid (such as cream of tartar, lemon juice, or vinegar) in some recipes, but the amounts and ratios may need to be adjusted accordingly |
| Common brands | · Clabber Girl,
· Rumford, · Calumet, · Davis, · Magic, and others |
| Applications | Used in
· cakes, · muffins, · biscuits, · quick breads, · and other baked goods |
| Gluten-free options | Some brands of baking powder may contain gluten as a filler, so look for certified gluten-free options if necessary |
Reaction of baking powder with Non-Metal Element
| Non-Metal Element | Reaction with Baking Powder |
| Sulfur (S) | Baking powder and sulphur can combine to create the pungent gas hydrogen sulphide (H2S). Under specific baking conditions, like as high heat, this reaction may happen. |
| Phosphorus (P) | Baking powder and phosphorus can combine to create the poisonous and flammable gas phosphine (PH3). Under specific baking conditions, like as high heat, this reaction may happen |
Reaction of baking powder with Metalloid
| Metalloid | Reaction with Baking Powder |
| Boron (B) | Under specific baking circumstances, such as high heat, baking powder and boron can react to produce carbon dioxide gas (CO2). |
| Silicon | Under specific baking circumstances, such as high heat and low pH levels, baking powder can react with silicon to produce carbon dioxide gas (CO2). |