orthophosphate

[ awr-thuh-fos-feyt ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a salt or ester of orthophosphoric acid, or any compound containing the trivalent group −PO 4 .

orthophosphate

/ ˌɔːθəʊˈfɒsfeɪt /

noun

1. any salt or ester of orthophosphoric acid

Word History and Origins

Origin of orthophosphate¹

First recorded in 1855–60; ortho- + phosphate

Example Sentences

In addition to removing all pipes and handing out filters, it also proposed an alternative water treatment method because the standard additive, orthophosphate, can harm waterways.

From Seattle Times

The next month, the state issued a permit for the city to pump orthophosphate and polyphosphate into the water to coat the pipes and prevent erosion.

From Seattle Times

Then, in May, officials added a new chemical to the water — orthophosphate — that has proved helpful at preventing leaching.

From New York Times

In about half of all American water companies, including the Detroit system, orthophosphates are added to the water at the treatment plant.

From The Guardian

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority will start adding orthophosphate to its water in August.

From Seattle Times