Orthophosphoric acid is another name for phosphoric acid. It is a compound with the molecular formula H3PO4. This acid is commonly known for its syrupy, colorless liquid form, although in its pure state, it exists as a colorless solid. Compared to other mineral acids, orthophosphoric acid is considered a weaker acid.
Key Characteristics of Orthophosphoric Acid:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Phosphoric acid, Phosphoric (V) acid |
| Molecular Formula | H3PO4 |
| Physical State | Syrupy, colorless liquid (commonly), colorless solid (pure) |
| Acidic Strength | Relatively weaker acid compared to other mineral acids. |
Important Points to Consider:
-
Multiple Names: Orthophosphoric acid is not a distinct chemical entity from phosphoric acid; it is simply a different name for the same compound.
-
Weak Acid: Its classification as a weaker acid means that it does not fully dissociate into ions when dissolved in water.
-
Industrial Applications: Orthophosphoric acid is used in various industries, including:
- Fertilizer production.
- Detergent manufacturing.
- Food and beverage processing.
-
Chemical Structure: The chemical formula, H3PO4, signifies that each molecule of orthophosphoric acid contains three hydrogen atoms, one phosphorus atom, and four oxygen atoms.
In summary, orthophosphoric acid is just another term for phosphoric acid, and the terms can be used interchangeably. Understanding its properties and applications is essential in chemistry and related fields.
