What will happen if a solution of sodium hydrocarbonate is heated? Give the equation of the reaction involved.

When a solution of sodium bicarbonate (sodium hydrogen carbonate), NaHCO₃, is heated, it undergoes thermal decomposition to produce carbon dioxide, water, and sodium carbonate. The chemical equation for this reaction is as follows:

2NaHCO₃ → Na₂CO₃ + CO₂ + H₂O
In words, two moles of sodium bicarbonate decompose into one mole of sodium carbonate, carbon dioxide, and water. The evolution of carbon dioxide gas during this reaction can often be observed as bubbling in the solution. This reaction is commonly used in cooking and baking to release carbon dioxide gas, which helps dough rise.