AMMONIUM BICARBONATE Meaning and
Definition
-
Ammonium bicarbonate is a chemical compound with the formula NH4HCO3. It is a white, crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. It is also commonly referred to as ammonium hydrogen carbonate or baking ammonia.
This compound is commonly used in several industrial processes, including in the food and beverage industries. It is widely employed as a leavening agent in baking, especially in the production of flatbreads and cookies. When heated, ammonium bicarbonate undergoes thermal decomposition, releasing carbon dioxide gas, which causes the dough to rise and create a light and fluffy texture.
In addition to its role in the food industry, ammonium bicarbonate finds applications in various other fields. It is utilized in the manufacturing of ceramics and textiles as a source of carbon dioxide for the controlled atmosphere processes. It is also used as a reagent in certain analytical chemistry techniques due to its ability to release carbon dioxide gas upon reaction with certain compounds.
Despite its multiple uses, ammonium bicarbonate should be handled with caution. It can release irritating or toxic gases upon decomposition, and prolonged exposure to high concentrations should be avoided. Furthermore, it is important to store this compound in a cool and dry place, away from incompatible substances, as it is hygroscopic and can readily absorb moisture from the air, leading to a decrease in its effectiveness.
Overall, ammonium bicarbonate plays a crucial role in various industries as a leavening agent, but its proper and safe handling is of utmost importance to ensure its effectiveness and minimize any potential health hazards.
Etymology of AMMONIUM BICARBONATE
The word "ammonium" originates from the Latin word "ammoniacum", which referred to a gum resin obtained from the plant Dorema ammoniacum. The resin was used in ancient times as a fragrance and medicine. The Latin term "ammoniacum" is derived from the Greek word "ammoniakon", meaning "salt of Ammon". It was named after the Egyptian god Amun (or Ammon), whose temple in Libya had large deposits of the resin.
The term "bicarbonate" comes from the chemical nomenclature system that uses prefixes to indicate the composition of compounds. "Bi-" indicates the presence of two hydrogen carbonate ions (HCO3-) in the compound. The prefix "bi-" is derived from the Latin "bis", meaning "two".
