When vinegar and baking soda are mixed together, a chemical reaction occurs. Vinegar is an acidic substance, while baking soda is a basic substance. The reaction between the two produces carbon dioxide gas, water, and a type of salt called sodium acetate.
Here is a step-by-step explanation of what happens:
1. Initially, the vinegar and baking soda are in their original states: vinegar is a clear liquid, and baking soda is a white powder.
2. When the two substances are combined, the acid in the vinegar (acetic acid) reacts with the base in the baking soda (sodium bicarbonate).
3. The reaction releases carbon dioxide gas as a byproduct. This gas is responsible for the bubbling and foaming that you observe when vinegar and baking soda are mixed.
4. The release of carbon dioxide gas also causes pressure to build up inside the mixture.
5. As the pressure increases, the gas bubbles expand and rise to the surface, carrying some of the liquid along with it. This is why you see the foaming action.
6. The reaction will continue until all the baking soda or vinegar is used up. At this point, the foaming will stop, and you will be left with a solution that contains water, sodium acetate, and any remaining unreacted vinegar or baking soda.
It's important to note that the reaction between vinegar and baking soda is an example of an acid-base reaction, and the products formed differ from the original substances.