Characteristic

A phosphoric acid, in the general sense, is a phosphorus oxoacid in which each phosphorus atom is in the oxidation state +5, and is bonded to four oxygen atoms, one of them through a double bond, arranged as the corners of a tetrahedron.

Chemical formula:HPO₃

Appearance:Colorless block or bar

Application

Metaphosphoric acid is used as a dehydrating agent. Its derivative, sodium hexametaphosphate is used as a sequestrant and a food additive. It is also used as a phosphorylating agent, analytical reagent and in dental cements.