Hydrogen Phosphate
HPO4 2-
Hydrogen phosphate is a polyatomic ion with the formula HPO4^-2. It is a salt of phosphoric acid and contains one central phosphorus atom surrounded by four oxygen atoms and one hydrogen ion. Hydrogen phosphate has a negative charge of 2 and is commonly used in chemistry, biochemistry, and medicine.
In aqueous solutions, hydrogen phosphate ionizes into phosphate ions, HPO4^-2, and hydrogen ions, H+. The equilibrium constant for this ionization process is known as the acid dissociation constant, Ka, and has a value of 6.3 x 10^-8 for hydrogen phosphate. This means that hydrogen phosphate is a weak acid that does not completely dissociate in water and has a limited ability to donate its hydrogen ion.
Hydrogen phosphate ions play a crucial role in biological systems as they are an essential component of DNA, ATP, and other biomolecules. In addition, hydrogen phosphate ions are involved in regulating pH balance and buffering systems in the human body.
Overall, hydrogen phosphate is an important ion with diverse applications in chemistry, biology, and medicine. Understanding its properties and functions can provide valuable insights into numerous natural and synthetic processes.
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