Hypophosphorous is a difficult word to spell. It is pronounced /haɪpɵfɒsfɔːrəs/. The first two syllables, "hypo" and "phospho" are straightforward, but the last syllable, "-rous," is pronounced differently than it is spelled. The "ou" is pronounced as a schwa sound, similar to the "u" in "butter," while the "s" is silent. The word refers to a chemical compound containing the hypophosphite ion, used in a variety of industrial and medical applications.
Hypophosphorous, also known as hypophosphoric acid or hypophosphite, is a chemical compound that is derived from phosphorus. It is typically found in the form of the hypophosphite ion, which is a polyatomic ion with the formula H2PO2-. Hypophosphorous is a white, crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water.
In terms of its chemical properties, hypophosphorous is a weak reducing agent and is often used as a reducing agent in various chemical reactions. It is commonly employed in the production of certain organic compounds, such as pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It can also be used in the synthesis of other chemicals, including metal phosphides and metallic salts.
Hypophosphorous is widely utilized in industries such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and chemical manufacturing. It is also used in electroless nickel plating, which is a process that involves depositing a layer of nickel onto a substrate without the use of an external electric current.
As for its applications in medicine, hypophosphorous plays a role in the production of certain medications and can be used as a reducing agent in the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates.
Overall, hypophosphorous is an important chemical compound that is valued for its reducing properties and its versatile applications across various industries.
A name applied to an acid which contains less oxygen than phosphorous acid.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "hypophosphorous" is derived from the Greek words "hypo" meaning "under" or "below" and "phosphoros" meaning "light-bearing" or "bringing light". The term was coined in the early 19th century to describe a chemical substance with lower phosphorous content compared to phosphorous acid.