What is an effect of mixing spirits with soda?

Mixing spirits with soda often softens the flavors of the drink, providing a more refreshing experience. This happens because soda tends to dilute the strong characteristics of the spirit, allowing for a more balanced taste. The carbonation in soda also adds a textural element that can enhance the drink's overall enjoyment, making it more palatable, especially for those who may find the flavor of straight spirits too intense. This combination is popular in many cocktails because it can create a thirst-quenching beverage that appeals to a broader audience.

Other options introduce concepts that do not accurately capture the common effects of such mixtures. For instance, increasing the strength of the drink is not the case, as mixing with soda generally decreases the alcohol concentration per sip. Eliminating all sweetness is inaccurate because many sodas have added sugars or sweeteners, which can contribute to the overall flavor profile rather than removing sweetness entirely. Lastly, increasing bitterness is not a typical result when mixing spirits with soda, as the soda's sweetness and carbonation usually mask any bitterness present in the spirit.