Dicalcium phosphate facts for kids

Dicalcium phosphate is a special chemical compound. Think of it as a tiny building block made of different elements. Its chemical formula, CaHPO₄, tells us it contains calcium, hydrogen, and phosphate ions.

What is Dicalcium Phosphate Like?

Dicalcium phosphate looks like a white powder or solid. It doesn't mix or dissolve in water, which means it stays solid even when wet. You can imagine it as a changed version of phosphoric acid, where some of its hydrogen parts have been swapped out for calcium parts.

How is Dicalcium Phosphate Made?

Scientists and chemists can create dicalcium phosphate in a lab. One way is by mixing phosphoric acid with calcium hydroxide. It's like combining two ingredients to make a new one.

It can also be made using sulfuric acid and a specific amount of tricalcium phosphate. These chemical reactions help create the dicalcium phosphate compound.

What is Dicalcium Phosphate Used For?

Dicalcium phosphate has several important uses. It is often added to fertilizers. This helps plants get the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.

You might also find it in vitamin tablets. It helps people get enough calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. It is also used in animal feed, especially for chickens, to make sure they get enough calcium for healthy growth and strong eggshells.

Related pages

• Monocalcium phosphate
• Tricalcium phosphate

Images for kids

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  This picture shows a small part of dicalcium phosphate dihydrate. It highlights the calcium (green), oxygen (red), phosphorus (orange), and hydrogen (white) atoms.

See also

In Spanish: Fosfato hidrogenado de calcio para niños