**Baking Soda: Sodium Bicarbonate**

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a chemical compound that is commonly used in baking and cooking. It is a white crystalline powder with a slightly alkaline taste. Baking soda is different from table salt, which is sodium chloride.

**Explanation:**

1. **Sodium Bicarbonate:** Baking soda is chemically known as sodium bicarbonate, which means it is composed of sodium (Na), hydrogen (H), carbon (C), and oxygen (O). Its chemical formula is NaHCO3. This compound is commonly used in cooking, cleaning, and as a household remedy for various purposes.

2. **Composition:** Baking soda is composed of sodium ions (Na+) and bicarbonate ions (HCO3-). The sodium ions give baking soda its alkaline properties, while the bicarbonate ions contribute to its ability to act as a leavening agent in baking.

3. **Leavening Agent:** Baking soda is widely used as a leavening agent in baking. When baking soda is combined with an acid (such as vinegar, lemon juice, or buttermilk) and moisture, it produces carbon dioxide gas. This gas gets trapped in the dough or batter, causing it to rise and create a light and fluffy texture in baked goods.

4. **Neutralizing Agent:** Baking soda is also known for its ability to act as a neutralizing agent. It can help to balance the pH levels in recipes by neutralizing acids and bases. This is why baking soda is often used in recipes that contain acidic ingredients, such as tomato sauce or sour cream, to reduce their acidity and create a milder flavor.

5. **Cleaning Agent:** Baking soda is a versatile cleaning agent that can be used for various household cleaning tasks. Its alkaline nature helps to break down grease, stains, and odors. Baking soda can be used to clean surfaces, remove stains from fabrics, freshen carpets, deodorize refrigerators, and even as a natural toothpaste or deodorant.

In conclusion, baking soda is a chemical compound called sodium bicarbonate. It is different from ordinary table salt, which is sodium chloride. Baking soda is commonly used in baking, cooking, cleaning, and as a household remedy due to its leavening, neutralizing, and cleaning properties.

Baking soda is called" Sodium bicarbonate
" and WASHING SODA is called " sodium carbonate "