Definition

A type of salt or ester that comes from orthophosphoric acid, commonly found in fertilizers and other chemical compounds.

Example

Farmers often use orthophosphate in their fertilizers to promote plant growth.

Conversation

I just learned about orthophosphate in my chemistry class.

Oh really? What is it exactly?

It's a type of salt from orthophosphoric acid, pretty interesting stuff!

That sounds cool! I never knew chemistry could be so fascinating.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Orthophosphate is formed from "ortho-" (from Greek "orthos", meaning straight or correct) and "phosphate" (from Greek "phosphoros", meaning light-bearing, derived from "phos" meaning light and "phoros" meaning bearing). The term refers to a specific form of phosphate that is in its correct or standard state.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ortho-' meaning 'correct' and 'phosphate' relating to 'light-bearing' — together, they help you remember that orthophosphate is the correct form of phosphate.

Visually Confused Words