Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy (TLETA) Week 5 Practice Test

Which description best defines how crack cocaine is formed?

The process of dissolving cocaine in cold water for injection A method of preserving cocaine in powder form The chemical process of converting cocaine hydrochloride to free base using baking soda and heat The process of mixing cocaine with alcohol to create a salt

Correct Answer:

The chemical process of converting cocaine hydrochloride to free base using baking soda and heat

Explanation:

Crack cocaine forms from cocaine hydrochloride, the water-soluble salt form, being converted into its free-base form through a basic reaction with heat. Using a base (like baking soda) and heat removes the hydrochloride, yielding free-base cocaine. This free base is nonpolar and volatile, so it can be heated and smoked, producing rapid absorption and a quick, intense effect. This concept is about the chemical change to a smokable form, not about dissolving for injection, preserving the powder, or forming a salt with alcohol.

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