What is the main role of the edible acid present in baking powder?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: To neutralise sodium carbonate formed from baking soda and prevent bitterness
Baking powder contains baking soda along with an edible acid such as tartaric acid. On heating, baking soda can form sodium carbonate, which has a bitter taste. The edible acid neutralises this sodium carbonate and prevents bitterness in the food. Therefore, option A is correct. Option C is incorrect because the carbon dioxide produced helps cakes and bread rise. Exam tip: Link the edible acid in baking powder with the neutralisation of bitter sodium carbonate.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
To neutralise sodium carbonate formed from baking soda and prevent bitterness
Why is this the correct answer?
Baking powder contains baking soda along with an edible acid such as tartaric acid. On heating, baking soda can form sodium carbonate, which has a bitter taste. The edible acid neutralises this sodium carbonate and prevents bitterness in the food. Therefore, option A is correct. Option C is incorrect because the carbon dioxide produced helps cakes and bread rise. Exam tip: Link the edible acid in baking powder with the neutralisation of bitter sodium carbonate.
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.
