- #1
Sqw
- 5
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There's only one carbon atom...
What does the bi stand for in bicarbonate, what is the purpose?
- Thread starter Sqw
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In summary, bicarbonate is a compound that contains one carbon atom with an attached H+ ion, also known as a hydrogen carbonate. It is sometimes referred to as "bi" because it contains twice as much carbon as a carbonate of the same metal. This naming convention predates the modern understanding of molecules.
- #2
zyj
- 24
- 0
It just refers to the fact that it's a carbonate ion with an H+, essentially a proton, attached to it. I'm not sure where 'bi' comes from, but that's the reason why bicarbonate is also sometimes called hydrogen carbonate.
- #3
- #4
Jadaav
- 175
- 1
I think it's a compound consisting of 2 carbon atoms. Yep, they are the same Carbon - 12 atoms.
I usually use this which helps me a lot :
Mono - stands for one ( sometimes not mentioned like in maths ;) )
bi - stands for two
di - stands for two
tri - stands for three
Source : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bi-
Make sure you read it :)
I usually use this which helps me a lot :
Mono - stands for one ( sometimes not mentioned like in maths ;) )
bi - stands for two
di - stands for two
tri - stands for three
Source : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bi-
Make sure you read it :)
- #5
tiny-tim
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
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Welcome to PF!
Hi Sqw! Welcome to PF!
I think it predates the modern understanding of molecules, and was because a bicarbonate contains twice as much carbon (ie it produced twice as much CO2) as the carbonate of the same metal.
eg NaHCO3 contains twice as much C per Na as does Na2CO3 …
since the latter is obviously a carbonate, the former must be a bicarbonate!
Hi Sqw! Welcome to PF!
I think it predates the modern understanding of molecules, and was because a bicarbonate contains twice as much carbon (ie it produced twice as much CO2) as the carbonate of the same metal.
eg NaHCO3 contains twice as much C per Na as does Na2CO3 …
since the latter is obviously a carbonate, the former must be a bicarbonate!
FAQ: What does the bi stand for in bicarbonate, what is the purpose?
What does the bi stand for in bicarbonate?
The "bi" in bicarbonate stands for "two," indicating that there are two hydrogen atoms in the molecule.
What is the purpose of bicarbonate?
Bicarbonate serves multiple purposes in the body, including regulating the acid-base balance, serving as a buffer to maintain pH levels in the blood, and aiding in digestion by neutralizing stomach acid.
How is bicarbonate produced in the body?
Bicarbonate is produced in the body through a process called the carbonic acid-bicarbonate buffer system. This system involves the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into carbonic acid, which then breaks down into bicarbonate and hydrogen ions.
What are some sources of bicarbonate in the diet?
Some common dietary sources of bicarbonate include fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and mineral water.
What happens if there is too much or too little bicarbonate in the body?
If there is too much bicarbonate in the body, it can lead to a condition called alkalosis, which can cause symptoms such as muscle twitching, confusion, and convulsions. If there is too little bicarbonate, it can lead to acidosis, which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, rapid breathing, and confusion.