Fosfaattianioni
Fosfaattianioni is the anionic form of phosphoric acid. It is a polyatomic anion with the chemical formula PO4^3-. In aqueous solutions, phosphoric acid can dissociate to form three different phosphate species: dihydrogen phosphate (H2PO4^-), hydrogen phosphate (HPO4^2-), and phosphate (PO4^3-), depending on the pH. The phosphate ion is a crucial component in biological systems, forming the backbone of DNA and RNA. It is also a key element in energy transfer molecules like ATP (adenosine triphosphate). In geology, phosphate minerals are abundant and are the primary source of phosphorus for industrial and agricultural use, particularly in fertilizers. The phosphate anion is a weak base and can act as a buffer in various chemical and biological environments. Its presence is essential for numerous metabolic processes in living organisms.