Definition

A chemical compound that contains the bicarbonate ion, often used in baking and as an antacid.

Example

Sodium bicarbonate is commonly used in baking to help dough rise.

Conversation

Have you ever used bicarbonate for cleaning around the house?

Yeah, it's great for removing stains!

I heard it can also help with baking certain recipes.

Absolutely! It works as a leavening agent in many baked goods.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bicarbonate → It is formed from "bi-" (meaning two) and "carbon" (from Latin "carbo", meaning coal or carbon) and "-ate" (a suffix used in chemistry to denote a salt or ester of an acid). The word "bicarbonate" refers to a compound containing two parts of carbonic acid, hence the name indicates it has two carbon atoms in its structure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'two' ('bi-') carbon atoms ('carbon') in a compound, which helps you remember that bicarbonate is a chemical that contains two parts of carbonic acid.

Visually Confused Words