Which compound is used in baking the cake ?

Options

A. NaOH
B. `Na_(2)CO_(3)`
C. `NaHCO_(3)`
D. None of the

Answer

To determine which compound is used in baking a cake, we need to analyze the given options and their properties:

1. **Identify the Compounds**:
- Option A: NaOH (Sodium Hydroxide)
- Option B: Na2CO3 (Sodium Carbonate)
- Option C: NaHCO3 (Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate, also known as Baking Soda)
- Option D: None of the above

2. **Analyze Each Option**:
- **NaOH (Sodium Hydroxide)**: This compound is commonly known as caustic soda and is primarily used in laboratories and industrial applications. It is not suitable for baking.

- **Na2CO3 (Sodium Carbonate)**: Also known as washing soda, sodium carbonate is used in the paint and dye industry. It does not have a role in baking.

- **NaHCO3 (Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate)**: This compound is known as baking soda. When it is used in baking, it decomposes to release carbon dioxide gas. This gas helps to leaven the cake, making it light and fluffy by creating small holes in the batter.

3. **Conclusion**:
- The compound that is specifically used in baking a cake is **Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate (NaHCO3)**, which is option C.

**Final Answer**: The compound used in baking the cake is **Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate (NaHCO3)**, also known as baking soda.

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