The reaction between acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) is a classic example of an acid-base reaction. Here's the balanced chemical equation:

C₉H₈O₄ (aspirin) + NaHCO₃ (baking soda) → C₉H₇O₄Na (sodium acetylsalicylate) + H₂O (water) + CO₂ (carbon dioxide)

Explanation:

* Aspirin (C₉H₈O₄) acts as an acid, donating a proton (H⁺).

* Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) acts as a base, accepting the proton.

* The reaction produces sodium acetylsalicylate (C₉H₇O₄Na), which is the sodium salt of aspirin.

* The other products are water (H₂O) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas, which is responsible for the fizzing you see when aspirin is combined with baking soda.

Important Note: While this reaction is commonly used to demonstrate the properties of aspirin and baking soda, it is not recommended to mix them in your stomach. The rapid release of carbon dioxide can cause discomfort and potentially even harm.