What ingredient in pancakes serves as a leavening agent?

Baking powder serves as the leavening agent in pancakes, which is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture in the final product. When mixed with wet ingredients, baking powder produces carbon dioxide gas through a chemical reaction. This gas creates bubbles in the batter, which expand when heated, resulting in the rising effect that makes pancakes airy and fluffy.

In contrast, flour primarily acts as the structural component in pancakes, providing the foundation for the batter. Sugar contributes sweetness and can enhance browning but does not aid in leavening. Salt, while important for flavor enhancement, does not contribute to the pancake's rise either. Thus, baking powder is essential for ensuring that pancakes rise properly during cooking.