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Potassium dihydrogen phosphate

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Identification
Molecular formula
KH2PO4
CAS number
7778-77-0
IUPAC name
potassium;dihydrogen phosphate
State
State

At room temperature, potassium dihydrogen phosphate is solid. It is commonly encountered in the form of a white crystalline powder.

Melting point (Celsius)
252.60
Melting point (Kelvin)
525.75
Boiling point (Celsius)
275.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
548.15
General information
Molecular weight
136.09g/mol
Molar mass
136.0860g/mol
Density
2.3380g/cm3
Appearence

Potassium dihydrogen phosphate appears as a white, crystalline solid or powder. It is highly soluble in water, forming clear solutions.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate

Potassium dihydrogen phosphate, or K2HPO4, exhibits notable solubility characteristics that make it a valuable compound in various applications. Understanding its solubility behavior can be beneficial in both laboratory and industrial settings.

Solubility in Water

One of the standout features of potassium dihydrogen phosphate is its high solubility in water. Key points include:

  • Solubility Rate: It can dissolve to form a saturated solution easily, typically around 350 g/L at room temperature.
  • Temperature Dependence: Its solubility tends to increase with temperature, making it easier to dissolve in hot water.
  • Universal Appeal: This compound is soluble in both acidic and basic environments, showcasing its versatility.

Influences on Solubility

Several factors can influence the solubility of potassium dihydrogen phosphate:

  • pH of the Solution: Changes in pH can affect the ionic state of the compound and its interaction with water molecules.
  • Presence of Other Ions: The presence of other salts or ions can lead to competitive interactions, potentially affecting solubility.

In summary, potassium dihydrogen phosphate's excellent solubility in water, particularly its sensitivity to temperature and pH changes, makes it a compound of substantial interest for various chemical applications. Its ability to readily form solutions enhances its utility as a reagent in laboratories and as a nutrient in agriculture.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate

Potassium dihydrogen phosphate, often referred to as KH₂PO₄, is a fascinating ionic compound with a variety of applications in both scientific and agricultural fields. Here are some noteworthy points about this versatile substance:

  • Role in Agriculture: KH₂PO₄ is widely used as a fertilizer due to its high phosphorus and potassium content, both of which are essential nutrients for plant growth. It plays a critical role in root development, flowering, and fruiting.
  • Buffering Agent: In biochemical laboratories, potassium dihydrogen phosphate serves as an effective buffering agent. It helps maintain a stable pH in biological and chemical reactions, making it essential in enzymatic assays and cell culture media.
  • Food Additive: This compound is also employed as a food additive, particularly in the production of soft drinks and bakery products. It enhances the texture and stability of food items, contributing to the overall quality.
  • Research Applications: In scientific research, potassium dihydrogen phosphate is utilized in various studies analyzing the effects of nutrients on living organisms, as well as its applications in molecular biology for maintaining optimal conditions for nucleic acid extraction.
  • Chemical Properties: Potassium dihydrogen phosphate exhibits unique properties such as water solubility and crystallization, which are exploited in laboratory settings to produce pure samples for experimentation.

As a compound, potassium dihydrogen phosphate is more than just a simple salt; it is a crucial player in agricultural productivity, scientific research, and food technology. Its significance in different domains underscores the interconnectedness between chemistry and real-world applications.

In the words of chemists, "Understanding the properties of compounds like potassium dihydrogen phosphate opens the door to innovation and sustainable practices in agriculture and biology."