Buzz
Alka-Seltzer is made up of citric acid and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda); when these react with water, they create the fizz. Steven Errico / Getty ImagesThe bubbling effect you observe when an Alka-Seltzer tablet hits the water is similar to the fizz produced by baking powder. If you check the Question of the Day about baking powder, you’ll discover that the reaction happens when an acid interacts with baking soda (sodium bicarbonate). You may have done an experiment in school where mixing baking soda with vinegar caused foaming, which is the same reaction in baking powder.
Looking at the ingredients of Alka-Seltzer, you’ll find citric acid and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). When you drop the tablet into water, the acid and baking soda combine, creating the fizz. Think of an Alka-Seltzer tablet as compacted baking powder with a touch of aspirin included.
Here are some fascinating links:
- How do Pop Rocks candy work?
- Why does hydrogen peroxide bubble when applied to a cut?
- The Alka-Seltzer Website
- Alka-Seltzer Rockets
