The difference btwn baking soda and baking powder: how do they work differently in baking cakes?

Question

The difference btwn baking soda and baking powder: how do they work differently in baking cakes?

Answer 1

Baking powder can come in two types: Single action and Double action. Single action is when the leavening is activated by moisture.

Double action is when the leavening action is activated by both moisture and heat. You are more likely to use Baking powder in biscuits  and breads for that light fluffy texture

Memory serves, Baking soda is only activated when wet and used more in cookies where you need some leavening but not like you would for biscuits.