If baking powder contains only baking soda and no acidic substance, why can the taste of the food be affected?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Remaining sodium carbonate can give a bitter basic taste
The governing concept is incomplete neutralisation in a baking mixture. During heating, baking soda can decompose and leave sodium carbonate. If no edible acid is present, this basic substance is not sufficiently neutralised. Residual sodium carbonate may give the food an unpleasant bitter or alkaline taste. Therefore option A is correct. Hydrogen is not the relevant product, sodium chloride is not formed here, and some change can occur.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Remaining sodium carbonate can give a bitter basic taste
Why is this the correct answer?
The governing concept is incomplete neutralisation in a baking mixture. During heating, baking soda can decompose and leave sodium carbonate. If no edible acid is present, this basic substance is not sufficiently neutralised. Residual sodium carbonate may give the food an unpleasant bitter or alkaline taste. Therefore option A is correct. Hydrogen is not the relevant product, sodium chloride is not formed here, and some change can occur.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Acids, Bases, and Salts.
