Properties and Changes of Properties in Matter, Grades 5-8 A characteristic property of baking powder is that it produces carbon dioxide when dissolved in water. Substances react chemically in characteristic ways with other substances to form new substances with different characteristic properties. Yeast releases carbon dioxide and water as it metabolizes sugar. Chemical Reactions, Grades 9-12 Chemical reactions in living systems are catalyzed by protein molecules called enzymes. Yeast, a living organism, metabolizes sugar with the help of enzymes.
Many important reactions involve the transfer of hydrogen ions between reacting molecules or atoms.
Chemical reactions occur all around us, for example in cooking. Leavening agents such as baking soda, baking powder, and yeast release carbon dioxide in their chemical reactions, causing breads and cakes to rise as the gas becomes trapped in the food. 1995-1997 Page maintained by Steve Gentle, Research Associate.