I've been trying to make Sodium Citrate and I've seen online people saying just react sodium bicarbonate with citric acid in water (with correct ratios) and boil off/remove water once the reaction has ceased. I've also seen online that some people suggest to use sodium carbonate instead. I thought I would ask here as I assume at some point the bicarbonate would turn to carbonate when reacted/exposed to the heat anyway by releasing hydrogen and carbon dioxide but I'm not a chemistry guy so if anyone knows which is better or which would result in more fool proof way, please let me know! Thanks!
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3$\begingroup$ The problem is that the 3rd acidic H of citric acid has about the same acidity as CO2(aq), so there is more or less balanced equilibrium $\ce{HCitr^2- + HCO3- <=> Citr^3- + CO2 + H2O}$. Boiling helps, if done properly, but Na2CO3 ensures the stoichiometry is achieved. $\endgroup$– PoutnikCommented Jan 22 at 14:04
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$\begingroup$ Thanks. I shall use sodium carbonate/Na2CO3 then. Cheers for your help. $\endgroup$– James HampCommented Jan 27 at 22:29
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