17. A substance `X` used in the kitchen for making tasty crispy pakoras and is also an ingredient of antacid. Name the substance `X`. (i) How does `X` help to make cakes and bread soft and spongy. (ii) Is the pH value of solution of `X` is lesser than or greater than 7.0?
Compound X is sodium bicarbonate. It releases carbon dioxide when mixed with the cake dough which helps make it softer and lighter.
Sodium bicarbonate is base and therefore its pH would be greater than 7.