Question
GeneralGeneralGeneral

What is the formula for carbonated water?

Verified Answer

Carbonated water is not a single pure compound, so it does not have one fixed formula. It is best described as:

H₂O + CO₂ (dissolved)

Chemical reaction involved:

CO₂ + H₂O ⇌ H₂CO₃

Explanation:

  • Carbon dioxide dissolves in water
  • A small portion forms carbonic acid (H₂CO₃)
  • Most CO₂ remains dissolved gas

So, commonly used representation:

  • H₂CO₃ (carbonic acid) → for simplicity
  • But technically → CO₂ dissolved in H₂O

Key Takeaway:

Carbonated water is a mixture of water and dissolved CO₂, with partial formation of carbonic acid (H₂CO₃).