Definition

A chemical compound that is a salt or ester derived from phosphorous acid, often used in fertilizers and other applications.

Example

Farmers often use phosphite to promote plant growth and protect against diseases.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of phosphite before?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's actually a salt of phosphorous acid, and it's used in some fertilizers.

That sounds interesting! I didn't know that about fertilizers.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phosphite → It is formed from "phosphorus" (from Greek "phosphoros", meaning light-bringer or morning star) and the suffix "-ite" (used in chemistry to denote a salt or ester of an acid). The word "phosphite" refers to a salt or ester derived from phosphorous acid, which is related to phosphorus, the element that brings light.

Memory Tip

Think of 'phosphorus' as the 'light-bringer' and remember that 'phosphite' is a compound related to it, specifically a salt or ester derived from phosphorous acid.

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