Phosphate is a natural source of phosphorus, an element that provides a quarter of all the nutrients that plants need for their growth and development. Phosphorus is used in many products, and is a vital nutrient for bone and teeth formation in humans. Here are some common uses of phosphate:
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Fertilizers: Phosphate rock is processed to produce phosphorous, which is one of the three main nutrients most commonly used in fertilizers (the other two are nitrogen and potassium) .
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Food production: Phosphorus is one of three nutrients (nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus) used in commercial fertilizer, making it vital for food production. Phosphate can also be turned into phosphoric acid, which is used in everything from food and cosmetics to animal feed and electronics.
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Building block for important substances: Phosphate is used as a building block for several important substances, including those used by the cell for energy, cell membranes, and DNA.
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Industrial and technical uses: Phosphates are used in a broad range of applications, including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, industrial and institutional cleaners, and fire extinguishers.
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Medicinal uses: Some phosphates are used to cure many urinary tract infections, and to avoid the development of calcium stones in the urinary tract. Phosphates are also used as dietary supplements for patients who are unable to get enough phosphorus in their daily diet, usually because of certain disorders or diseases.
Phosphorus cannot be manufactured or destroyed, and there is no substitute or synthetic version of it available.
