PHOSPHOROUS ACID Meaning and
Definition
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Phosphorous acid is a chemical compound with the formula H3PO3. It is also known as phosphonic acid or orthophosphorous acid. It is a mineral acid that consists of phosphorus in the +3 oxidation state. The compound is often found in its hydrated form, as phosphorous acid molecules readily bond with water molecules.
Phosphorous acid is a colorless, crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. It has a distinct odor and is highly corrosive in nature. It is primarily used in the manufacturing of chemicals, fertilizers, and pharmaceuticals. In addition, it is also employed as a reducing agent and a catalyst in a variety of industrial processes.
In terms of its chemical properties, phosphorous acid is a weak acid that can partially dissociate in water to produce free hydrogen ions (H+) and phosphite ions (H2PO3^-). It is considered a diprotic acid since it can lose two hydrogen ions. The compound is also known for its reducing properties, being able to convert metal oxides into their corresponding metal forms.
Phosphorous acid has been studied extensively for its antimicrobial properties and is used as a component in some disinfectant formulations. It also plays a vital role in plant nutrition as a phosphorus source, aiding in stimulating root development and enhancing resistance to diseases. However, it is important to handle phosphorous acid with caution, as it is toxic and can cause severe burns upon contact with skin or eyes.
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An acid, H3PO3, occurring in the form of a syrupy liquid; it combines with bases to form phosphites which, according to amount of the dibasic phosphorous acid present, are called acid phosphites and neutral phosphites.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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An acid containing one equivalent of phosphorus and three of oxygen.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PHOSPHOROUS ACID
- ohosphorous acid
- lhosphorous acid
- -hosphorous acid
- 0hosphorous acid
- pgosphorous acid
- pbosphorous acid
- pnosphorous acid
- pjosphorous acid
- puosphorous acid
- pyosphorous acid
- phisphorous acid
- phksphorous acid
- phlsphorous acid
- phpsphorous acid
- ph0sphorous acid
- ph9sphorous acid
- phoaphorous acid
- phozphorous acid
- phoxphorous acid
Etymology of PHOSPHOROUS ACID
The word "phosphorous acid" has its etymology rooted in the ancient Greek language. The term is derived from the Greek word "phosphoros", which means "bringer of light" or "light-bearing". This Greek word "phosphoros" itself is a compound word, combining the elements "phos" (meaning "light") and "phoros" (meaning "bearer" or "bringer"). Thus, "phosphorous acid" refers to an acid containing phosphorus, an element that emits light when ignited.
Similar spelling words for PHOSPHOROUS ACID
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