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When vinegar is mixed with baking soda, it causes a chemical reaction. The mixture produces carbon dioxide gas, causing bubbling and fizzing. If enough vinegar is used, the baking soda will likely cause the cup to overflow, which is why trays, plates, or large bowls are recommended for attempting the experiment. In a chemical formula, this can be described as:
CH₃COOH + NaHCO₃ = CH3COONa + H2O + CO2
Vinegar is an acetic acid, and baking soda is sodium bicarbonate, which is a base. When an acid and a base are mixed together, it typically creates a chemical reaction. In this context, the mixture of vinegar and baking soda produces carbon dioxide gas and water. Unlike strong acids, such as, nitric acid, hydrobromic acid, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, perchloric acid, hydroiodic acid, and chloric acid, acetic acid is a safe acid and will not cause any harm to the skin.