The correct answer is option 'C': Sodium, carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), is a chemical compound that is commonly used in baking as a leavening agent. It plays a crucial role in helping dough rise and giving baked goods a light and fluffy texture. Baking soda is formed from several elements, which are:

1. Sodium (Na):
- Sodium is an alkali metal that belongs to Group 1 of the periodic table.
- It is highly reactive and forms various compounds.
- In baking soda, sodium is the cation (positively charged ion), represented by the symbol Na+.

2. Carbon (C):
- Carbon is a nonmetallic element that is essential for life and is the basis of organic chemistry.
- It is present in all living organisms and many nonliving substances.
- In baking soda, carbon is present as carbonate (CO3) anion, which is negatively charged.

3. Hydrogen (H):
- Hydrogen is the lightest and most abundant element in the universe.
- It is a highly reactive gas that readily forms compounds with other elements.
- In baking soda, hydrogen is present as a part of the bicarbonate (HCO3) anion.

4. Oxygen (O):
- Oxygen is a highly reactive nonmetallic element that is essential for respiration and combustion.
- It is the most abundant element in the Earth's crust and plays a vital role in many chemical reactions.
- In baking soda, oxygen is present as part of both the carbonate (CO3) and bicarbonate (HCO3) anions.

When baking soda is mixed with an acidic ingredient, such as vinegar or lemon juice, a chemical reaction occurs. The hydrogen ions from the acid combine with the bicarbonate ions in baking soda to form carbon dioxide gas (CO2), water (H2O), and a salt. This reaction is responsible for the leavening action in baking, causing the dough or batter to rise.

In conclusion, the correct answer is option 'C': Sodium, carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. These elements combine to form baking soda, which is widely used in baking as a leavening agent.