Question
Question: What is orthophosphoric acid?...
What is orthophosphoric acid?
Solution
Phosphoric acid has four oxygen atoms, one phosphorus atom, and three hydrogen atoms. Phosphoric acid is also known as orthophosphoric acid. It is found in teeth and bones, and it aids metabolic activities.
Complete Step By Step Answer:
Phosphoric acid is referred to as orthophosphoric acid. Phosphoric acid has the chemical formula H3PO4 and is a weak acid.
Chemical properties of orthophosphoric acid.
Phosphoric acid is a solid that is commonly found in a viscous aqueous solution.
It is slightly acidic, with three probable deprotonation stages leading to the formation of phosphates.
Phosphoric acid, like carboxylic acids, can dimerize to generate phospho anhydrides by a dehydration reaction.
Phosphoric acid is classified as tribasic because it can dissociate in three different ways.
Uses of Phosphoric acid
It is used as a supplement feed for pigs, cattle, and poultry It is used as a pH adjuster in skincare products and cosmetics It is used as a sanitising agent in the brewing, food, and dairy industries It is used to acidify beverages and foods like jam and cola It is used to remove rust from the surface.
Note:
Concentrated sulphuric or nitric acid are more corrosive and dangerous than phosphoric acid. Phosphoric acid is a non-combustible chemical in both solid and liquid form. Its concentrated solutions irritate the skin and mucous membranes. If inhaled, it can be lethal. Fire smoke contains phosphine, phosphoric acid, and hydrogen chloride, which can irritate respiratory passages, eyes, and skin.