The Science Of Baking

Rascal

Can anyone here offer a simple explanation of the difference between baking powder and baking soda and how they affect the outcome of baking? Some recipes call for one while others require both. Just something that I've researched and haven't come upon a definitive answer. Thank you!

Rascal

Willie Lump Lump

Someone who actually knows will probably correct me but I think:
Baking soda is used when there is an acidic ingredient used and the acid base reaction creates carbon dioxide for the rise.
Baking powder has both parts of the reaction in it so that it can be used without an acidic ingredient.
WLL

TRex

The main purpose of either baking powder or baking soda is the release of carbon dioxide, via an acid-base reaction, which aids in the rising of your baked good.

Baking soda is just pure sodium bicarbonate (base), therefore one of your other ingredients needs to contain the acid that will react with the baking soda. Baking powder already has the acid present so this is typically used when your other ingredients are neutral (do not contain an acid).

This article explains in more detail:

http://chemistry.about.com/cs/foodchemistry/f/blbaking.htm

Happy baking,

TRex

Unknown

It has been explained to me a thousand times too, and I can never keep it straight.
This page helps a lot http://kitchensavvy.typepad.com/journal/2005/01/baking_soda_vs_.html

But basically soda is the raw form, that reacts with acid and fizzes (makes CO2)... as we all know from our volcano making days. So if a recipe calls for just soda, it will usuall yhave an acid with it to react and make CO2, and therefore make bubble, and therefore make the item light and fluffy.
Powder is essentially soda with an acid in powder form built in, plus a little corn starch to keep it all dry. So when it hits liquid, boom, self sustained bubbles.

If a recipe calls for both, it wants more leavening, more bubbles, and a lighter result.
That's it really... I mean besides all the real science behind it.

Rascal

I think I've finally reached an understanding (thanks to every response)! Happy baking!!

Rascal