TRIPLE PHOSPHATE Meaning and
Definition
-
Triple phosphate, also known as magnesium ammonium phosphate, is a chemical compound represented by the chemical formula NH4MgPO4•6H2O. It is a white crystalline substance that is commonly found in the form of small crystals or granules.
Triple phosphate is formed through the reaction of ammonium phosphate with magnesium sulfate or magnesium chloride in an aqueous solution. It is often produced naturally in certain environmental conditions, particularly in soil and wastewater, where it can form as a result of the breakdown of organic matter through microbial action.
In the field of medicine, the presence of triple phosphate crystals in urine can serve as an indicator of certain health conditions. It is commonly seen in cases of urinary tract infections caused by certain bacteria that produce urease. These crystals can also be found in individuals with urinary tract stones or kidney stones known as struvite stones, which are composed mainly of magnesium ammonium phosphate.
From a chemical perspective, triple phosphate has a variety of practical applications. It is utilized as a fertilizer in agriculture due to its high content of essential nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen. It can also be employed in the manufacturing of fireproof materials, ceramics, and certain types of glass. Additionally, triple phosphate is used as an ingredient in cleaning products, such as detergents and laundry additives, due to its ability to remove stains and neutralize odors.
-
• Ammonio-magnesian phosphate, (NH4)MgPO4.
• Ammoniomagnesium phosphate.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TRIPLE PHOSPHATE
Etymology of TRIPLE PHOSPHATE
The word "triple phosphate" has its etymology rooted in chemistry.
"Triple" comes from the Latin word "triplum", which means threefold or triple. It is derived from the Latin prefix "tri-" meaning three.
"Phosphate" originates from the Greek word "phosphoros", meaning "bringing or producing light". In chemistry, phosphates refer to salts or esters of phosphoric acid. The word "phosphate" is also derived from the Greek word "phosphoros" because certain phosphates were historically used in the production of matches, which produce light when ignited.
When combined, "triple phosphate" refers to a specific compound or salt containing three phosphate groups. This term is commonly used in the field of chemistry to describe various chemical compounds that possess this composition.
