eli5: Why is co2 the gas used to pressurize drinks. Why can’t something like nitrogen or atmosphere air be used.
In: 2772
Water is a polar substance, meaning that there’s an unbalanced charge on either side of the molecule. This is because it’s electrons aren’t distributed in a balanced way.
CO2 is also polar, but nitrogen is non-polar meaning that it’s charge is equal around the molecule (N2).
In chemistry it’s easier to dissolve a polar substance within a polar one, and vice versa.
Carbon dioxide’s solubility in water is 1.688 grams per liter, whereas nitrogen’s solubility is 0.019 grams per liter.
So you can dissolve Nitrogen in water, but not nearly as much. So you can’t get nearly as much fizz out of it.
CO2 also has a distinctive taste that is sought after.
Latest Answers