The balanced equation for the decomposition of sodium hydrogen carbonate (baking soda) is:

2 NaHCO₃(s) → Na₂CO₃(s) + H₂O(g) + CO₂(g)

Here's what the equation represents:

* NaHCO₃(s): Sodium hydrogen carbonate (baking soda) in solid state

* Na₂CO₃(s): Sodium carbonate (washing soda) in solid state

* H₂O(g): Water in gaseous state (steam)

* CO₂(g): Carbon dioxide in gaseous state

Explanation:

When heated, sodium hydrogen carbonate decomposes into sodium carbonate, water vapor, and carbon dioxide gas. This is why baking soda is used in baking – it releases carbon dioxide bubbles, causing the batter to rise.