Phosphoric Acid, Shape : Round

Phosphoric acid (also known as orthophosphoric acid or phosphoric(V) acid) is a weak acid with the chemical formula H₃PO₄. Orthophosphoric acid refers to phosphoric acid, which is the IUPAC name for this compound. The prefix ortho- is used to distinguish the acid from related phosphoric acids, called polyphosphoric acids. Orthophosphoric acid is a non-toxic acid, which, when pure, is a solid at room temperature and pressure. The conjugate base of phosphoric acid is the dihydrogen phosphate ion, H
2PO−
4, which in turn has a conjugate base of hydrogen phosphate, HPO2−
4, which has a conjugate base of phosphate, PO3−
4. Phosphates are essential for life.

The dominant use of phosphoric acid is for fertilizers, consuming approximately 90% of production

Food-grade phosphoric acid (additive E338^[13]) is used to acidify foods and beverages such as various colas and jams. It provides a tangy or sour taste. Phosphoric acid in soft drinks has the potential to cause dental erosion.^[14] Phosphoric acid also has the potential to contribute to the formation of kidney stones, especially in those who have had kidney stones previously.