Sodium hydrogen carbonate plays a crucial role in soda-acid fire extinguishers as the base component. In these extinguishers, a mixture of sodium hydrogen carbonate (baking soda) and a weak acid (typically tartaric acid) is stored separately. When the extinguisher is activated, a breaking mechanism releases the acid, initiating a chemical reaction. The acid reacts with sodium hydrogen carbonate, producing carbon dioxide gas. The rapid generation of carbon dioxide pressurizes the extinguisher and expels a solution of water, dissolved sodium carbonate, and the produced carbon dioxide. This effectively suppresses the fire by displacing oxygen and cooling the surrounding area.