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Phosphate

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Identification
Molecular formula
PO43−
CAS number
14265-44-2
IUPAC name
phosphate
State
State

At room temperature, phosphates are typically solid, often in the form of salts or minerals, and are quite stable when dry. They can also be dissolved in water under specific conditions.

Melting point (Celsius)
252.60
Melting point (Kelvin)
525.75
Boiling point (Celsius)
100.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
373.15
General information
Molecular weight
94.97g/mol
Molar mass
94.9710g/mol
Density
1.8700g/cm3
Appearence

Phosphate compounds generally appear as white powdery solids, although some may exhibit colors if impurities are present. They are often crystalline and may be granular in texture.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Phosphate (PO43−)

The solubility of phosphate ions (PO43−) can vary significantly depending on several factors, including pH, the presence of other ions in solution, and temperature. Here are some key points regarding phosphate solubility:

  • pH Sensitivity: Phosphate solubility is highly influenced by the pH of the solution. In acidic conditions, phosphate ions can exist in forms that are more soluble. Conversely, in alkaline conditions, precipitation can occur.
  • Common Precipitates: Phosphates often form insoluble compounds with cations such as calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), and iron (Fe3+), which can lead to a decrease in solubility.
  • Temperature Effects: Typically, an increase in temperature can enhance the solubility of many salts, including phosphates, though the specific behavior can vary.
  • Biological Significance: In biological systems, the solubility of phosphate is crucial for processes such as cellular respiration, energy transfer (ATP), and bone formation.

Overall, while phosphates can be soluble, their actual solubility is heavily context-dependent, and understanding these conditions is vital for applications in agriculture, environmental science, and biochemistry.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Phosphate (PO43−)

Phosphate, represented by the formula PO43−, is an essential polyatomic ion that plays a pivotal role in both biological systems and various industrial applications. Here are some fascinating aspects of this compound:

  • Biological Importance: Phosphate is a critical component of DNA and RNA, the molecules that carry genetic information in all living organisms. It is also a key player in ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which stores and transfers energy within cells.
  • Environmental Impact: While phosphorus is vital for plant growth, excess phosphate runoff from agricultural fields can lead to algal blooms in waterways, causing detrimental effects on aquatic ecosystems.
  • Fertilizers: Phosphates are widely used in fertilizers to enhance soil fertility and crop yield. They provide the necessary nutrients that plants need for growth and development.
  • Industrial Uses: In addition to agriculture, phosphates find applications in detergents, food additives, and as corrosion inhibitors in various industries.

It’s interesting to note that phosphate also has a unique structure, consisting of one phosphorus atom surrounded by four oxygen atoms in a tetrahedral configuration. This arrangement contributes to its diverse reactivity and interactions with other chemical species.

Overall, phosphates are more than just chemical ions; they are fundamental elements that sustain life, drive agricultural productivity, and support various industries. As one prominent scientist once said, "Life as we know it would not exist without phosphate."

Synonyms
phosphate
Phosphate ion
orthophosphate
14265-44-2
O-Phosphate
Phosphate ions
phosphate(3-)
UNII-NK08V8K8HR
NK08V8K8HR
tetraoxophosphate(V)
tetraoxophosphate(3-)
tetraoxidophosphate(3-)
CHEBI:18367
PO4(3-)
Phosphate PO4-3 @ 10,000microg/mL
Phosphate as P @ 1000 microg/mL in H2O
Phosphate as P @ 10000 microg/mL in H2O
PHOSPHATE (MART.)
PHOSPHATE [MART.]
Phosphate Standard: PO4(-3) @ 1000 microg/mL in H2O
Phosphate Standard: PO4(-3) @ 10000 microg/mL in H2O
Phosphates
PO43?
(PO4)(3-)
[PO4](3-)
a phosphate group
phosphate(3-) ion
LIQUIDGUARD
Phosphate Anion Solution
CREATINE PHOSPHATE;N-PHOSPHOCREATINE
PHOSPHATE [VANDF]
phosphoric acid, ion(3-)
DTXSID7039672
CHEBI:35780
BDBM50155537
MFCD00145108
AKOS015903596
DB14523
Phosphate standard solution (5 ppm PO4)
NS00114190
Q177811
SODIUM ALENDRONATE TRIHYDRATE IMPURITY B [EP IMPURITY]