Carbonation adds the bubbles to carbonated water.
Carbonated water, also called club soda, seltzer or even sparkling water, is water that has been transformed in its texture. The addition of carbon dioxide to the water, via a pressurized manufacturing and bottling process, results in water that is effervescent once the lid has been opened and the beverage poured.
Water
Water -- still water comprised of hydrogen and oxygen -- is the basis for carbonated water. In fact, water is the primary ingredient. The use of water is how the beverage derives its name.
Carbon Dioxide
The addition of carbon dioxide to still water, by using pressurization is what changes the consistency of the water. By adding the carbon dioxide, the water pressure changes as water molecules are dispersed to handle the addition of the carbon dioxide. This creates a pressurized container that remains carbonated until the lid is removed and air enters in to the bottle. The bubbles and fizzy consistency associated with carbonated water come from the carbon dioxide. Therefore, basic, plain carbonated water is simply water with added carbon dioxide.
Flavorings
Carbonated water can be changes with the addition of flavors. Vanilla, berry, lemon, lime and even orange are all options available to flavor club soda. Whether chemical flavor substitutions or natural extracts, adding liquid flavoring to carbonated water makes the bitter drink have a slight hint of flavor.
Sweetners
In the same way flavors can be added to carbonated water, sweeteners such as cane sugar juice, corn syrup or fructose can be included in the mixture for carbonated water. Typically done in conjunction with flavors, this turns the carbonated water more into a light version of soda.
Vitamins and Minerals
Liquid vitamins and minerals are also potential extra ingredients for carbonated water. Again, these are typically blended with both sweeteners and flavor to mask the taste of the enhancements. Vitamin B and B12 can be added to carbonated water to create an energy blend option or Vitamin C and Echinacea can be included for a immunity building blend.
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