Why Does Carbonated Soda Burn Our Nostrils?

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SUMMARY

The burning sensation experienced in the nostrils when burping carbonated soda is primarily due to the combination of carbon dioxide (CO2) and citric acid present in the beverage. When soda, such as Coca-Cola, interacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach, it produces gas that can irritate the nasal passages upon expulsion. The concentrated gas, along with acidic vapors, contributes to the sharp burning sensation felt in the nostrils during this process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic chemistry concepts, particularly acids and gases.
  • Familiarity with the composition of carbonated beverages, including citric acid and carbon dioxide.
  • Knowledge of human digestive processes, specifically the role of hydrochloric acid.
  • Awareness of sensory perception related to taste and smell.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of citric acid on the human body and its role in beverages.
  • Explore the chemistry of carbonated drinks and the role of carbonation in taste perception.
  • Investigate the physiological responses of the body to gas expulsion and its effects on the nasal passages.
  • Learn about the digestive process and how gases are produced in the stomach.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for food scientists, beverage manufacturers, and anyone interested in the chemistry of carbonated drinks and their effects on human physiology.

Paul Wilson
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Yea. This is probably the most idiotic question ever asked here. But hey, you don't find out unless you ask out.

You know when you drink carbonated soda, then burp down your nose, it really really burns?

How come this happens?

I thought it over, and it couldn't really be the CO2 as when you exhale, you exhale CO2 and it doesn't burn your nostrels.

Thanks.
 
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Most sodas contain citrus acid, I suspect this maybe the cause of the burning nose fizz.
 
I was thinking that and came up with a theory.

Soda (let's use coke as an example) is an acid. When the acid hits the neutralized HCL acid in your stomach, it de-neutralizes it. So in order to get rid of the acid, the stomach some what 'turns' it into a gas, releasing it. With the HCL and acidic vapours and such, when you burp down your nose, the vapour sharply burns the nostrel.

Probably wrong, but it's sort of plausable.
 
Paul Wilson said:
I thought it over, and it couldn't really be the CO2 as when you exhale, you exhale CO2 and it doesn't burn your nostrels.

The gas when you burp is concentrated, not to mention other ingredients in the mix. But I'm only guessing.

And that would be "up your nose". :wink:
 

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