Phosphorous acid facts for kids
Phosphorous acid is a special kind of chemical. It's an acid, which means it can release hydrogen ions. Its chemical formula is H3PO3. This means it's made up of three hydrogen atoms, one phosphorus atom, and three oxygen atoms.
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What is Phosphorous Acid Like?
Phosphorous acid is a white solid that looks a bit like sugar. It easily soaks up water from the air.
It's known as a strong reducing agent. This means it's very good at giving away electrons to other chemicals. When it gives away electrons, it helps other chemicals change.
This acid can also lose two of its hydrogen atoms, which makes it change its chemical structure. When you heat phosphorous acid, it changes into two other chemicals: phosphoric acid and phosphine. Phosphine is a gas that can be dangerous.
Phosphorous acid is also toxic, meaning it can be harmful if you touch or swallow it. The salts of phosphorous acid are called phosphites.
How is Phosphorous Acid Made?
You can make phosphorous acid in a couple of ways. One way is by mixing phosphorus(III) oxide with water.
Another way to make it is by reacting phosphorus trichloride with water. When these two chemicals mix, they also create hydrochloric acid as a byproduct.
What is Phosphorous Acid Used For?
Phosphorous acid has a few important uses:
- It's used as a reducing agent in different chemical reactions. This means it helps other chemicals change by giving them electrons.
- It's also used to help protect plants. It can kill certain types of bacteria and fungi that cause diseases in plants.
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