What does HCO stand for in chemistry?

HCO3 is the formula of bicarbonate, also called hydrogen carbonate. It is an alkaline chemical compound crucial to the pH balancing and maintenance of the acid-base internal environment within the human body.

Bicarbonate has a molecular weight of 61.01684 g/mol. It has a white powder appearance. It is odorless and has a slightly alkaline taste. The most common bicarbonate is sodium bicarbonate. It has the chemical formula NaHCO3 and is used as baking soda for cooking and cleaning. It is also used as an antacid. Due to its solubility in water, sodium bicarbonate is often used to assess water quality.