Sodium carbonate is a chemical compound. It is composed of sodium and carbonate ions. Its chemical formula is NaCO. It is a base. It reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide. It is made by reacting sodium hydroxide with carbon dioxide or by heating sodium bicarbonate. It is produced industrially by the Solvay process. It is used to make glass. It is also used in pools and cooking. It is used as an electrolyte.