Bicarbonate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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bicarbonate
[baɪˈkɑːrbənɪt ]
Definition
chemical compound
Bicarbonate is a negatively charged ion (HCO3-) that plays a vital role in maintaining pH balance in various biological systems. It is commonly found in the form of sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, which is used in cooking and as a leavening agent. Bicarbonate acts as a buffering agent that helps regulate acidity in the body, making it essential for proper biochemical functions.
Synonyms
bicarbonate ion, hydrogen carbonate, sodium bicarbonate.
Examples of usage
- Bicarbonate maintains blood pH.
- Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate.
- Doctors prescribe bicarbonate for acidosis.
Translations
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Origin of 'bicarbonate'
The term 'bicarbonate' comes from the combination of 'bi-' (meaning two) and 'carbonate', which refers to its structure containing an additional hydrogen atom compared to carbonates. The prefix 'bi-' in this context denotes the presence of two parts of the compound that contribute to its chemical behavior. Bicarbonates have been recognized since the 18th century, when chemists began classifying substances based on their ionic compositions. The most common form, sodium bicarbonate, was widely adopted in cooking and medicine due to its versatile properties, primarily as a leavening agent in baking and as an antacid in digestive ailments. Over time, the understanding of bicarbonate's role in physiologic processes, particularly in regulating acid-base balance in the human body, has expanded, making it a crucial component in many biochemical studies.