NaHCO

NaHCO is not a standard, widely recognized chemical formula for a discrete compound. In most cases where NaHCO appears, it is likely a misspelling or shorthand for other species. The two most common possibilities are sodium bicarbonate, NaHCO3, and sodium formate, NaCHO2. Without additional context, NaHCO cannot be reliably assigned a specific structure or properties.

Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) is a white, crystalline solid that dissolves in water. It acts as a mild base and buffering agent and decomposes on heating to release carbon dioxide. It is widely used as a leavening agent in baking, as an antacid, in cooking and cleaning, and in various chemical applications as a pH adjuster. Hazardous risks are low under normal handling, though it can be irritating in bulk dust form.

Sodium formate (NaCHO2) is a salt of formic acid and is typically encountered as a white to off-white solid that dissolves in water. It is used in organic synthesis, as a buffering agent, and in some industrial applications such as de-icing and plastic processing. Like many formate salts, it can be irritating to skin, eyes, and the respiratory system in concentrated forms; appropriate handling and protective equipment are recommended.

If NaHCO is encountered in literature or data, it is prudent to examine the surrounding text for context or a possible typographical error. It most likely refers to NaHCO3 or NaCHO2 rather than a distinct, stable compound with the formula NaHCO.