Phosphate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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phosphate

[หˆfษ”sหŒfeษชt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemical compound

Phosphate is a chemical compound containing the tetrahedral anion POโ‚„ยณโป. It is an important nutrient for living organisms, playing a crucial role in cellular systems, including energy transfer via adenosine triphosphate (ATP). In agriculture, phosphates are essential for promoting plant growth, with many fertilizers containing phosphate compounds. Additionally, phosphates are widely used in various industrial processes, including food preservation and the manufacturing of glass and ceramics.

Synonyms

PO4, phosphorate, phosphoric acid salt.

Examples of usage

  • The soil was enriched with phosphate for better crop yields.
  • Phosphate plays a vital role in energy transfer within cells.
  • Many detergents contain phosphates to enhance cleaning efficiency.

Translations

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Origin of 'phosphate'

The term 'phosphate' derives from the Greek word 'phosphoros', meaning 'light-bringer', which was used to describe compounds that contain phosphorus, a key element found in nature. Phosphorus was discovered in 1669 by the German alchemist Hennig Brand, who isolated it from urine. The name 'phosphorus' is a combination of the Greek root and the Latin '-ate' suffix, used to denote a salt or ester in chemistry. Over time, phosphates became recognized for their critical roles in biological systems, especially as they relate to the process of photosynthesis and the synthesis of DNA and RNA. Today, phosphates are extensively utilized in agriculture, food production, and various industrial applications, solidifying their importance in both scientific and everyday contexts.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,581, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.