What is the Density of 85% Phosphoric Acid? Explained in Detail

Phosphoric acid is widely used in industries like agriculture, food, and chemical production. But before diving into its applications, you may wonder, what is the density of 85% phosphoric acid? The answer to this question is important for accurate measurements in various fields, particularly when preparing solutions or conducting research.

Understanding Phosphoric Acid and its Properties

Phosphoric acid, with the chemical formula H₃PO₄, is a mineral acid commonly used in fertilizers, soft drinks, and rust removers. It has a wide range of concentrations, but the most commonly used one is 85%. When we talk about the density of 85% phosphoric , we refer to how much mass this liquid holds per unit of volume.

What is the density of 85% phosphoric acid? The density of 85% phosphoric is approximately 1.685 grams per milliliter (g/mL) at room temperature (20°C). This means that for every milliliter of 85% phosphoric acid, you have 1.685 grams of the substance.

Phosphoric Acid Density – Everything You Need to Know

What Affects the Density of 85% Phosphoric Acid?

The density of a liquid like phosphoric acid can be influenced by several factors. In particular:

1. Concentration – As the concentration of phosphoric acid increases, so does its density. This is why 85% phosphoric has a higher density compared to a more diluted version.
2. Temperature – Like most liquids, the density of phosphoric acid decreases as the temperature rises. This means that the density of 85% phosphoric at 30°C will be slightly lower than at 20°C.
3. Purity – Any impurities in phosphoric acid will slightly affect its density. However, 85% phosphoric sold for industrial use is typically pure, making its density fairly consistent.

Calculating the Mass of 85% Phosphoric Acid Using Density

Now that you know what is the density of 85% phosphoric , you can easily calculate its mass for any given volume. The formula to calculate the mass is:

Mass = Density × Volume

For example, if you have 50 milliliters of 85% phosphoric acid, the mass would be:

Mass = 1.685 g/mL × 50 mL = 84.25 grams

This calculation is useful for chemists, engineers, and industries that use phosphoric acid in their production processes.

Why is Knowing the Density of 85% Phosphoric Acid Important?

Understanding the density of 85% phosphoric is critical for:

1. Accurate Mixing – When preparing chemical solutions, accurate measurements are key to achieving the desired concentration and chemical reactions. Knowing the density helps in measuring exact quantities.
2. Safe Handling – Phosphoric acid is a corrosive substance. When handling it, especially in large quantities, understanding its density helps in storing, transporting, and safely using the acid.
3. Quality Control – Industries that rely on phosphoric acid need to ensure the quality and consistency of their products. Density measurements help in quality assurance by confirming that the acid is of the correct concentration and purity.

Comparing the Density of 85% Phosphoric Acid with Other Solutions

When considering what is the density of 85% phosphoric acid, it’s helpful to compare it with other acids or solutions:

1. Sulfuric Acid (98%) – The density of concentrated sulfuric acid is 1.84 g/mL, which is higher than that of 85 phosphoric acid.
2. Hydrochloric Acid (37%) – The density of concentrated hydrochloric acid is 1.19 g/mL, much lower than phosphoric acid.
3. Water – The density of water at room temperature is 1.0 g/mL, which is significantly less dense than 85% phosphoric.

How to Safely Handle 85% Phosphoric Acid

Handling a highly concentrated acid such as 85% phosphoric acid requires special care due to its corrosive properties. Here are some guidelines for safe handling:

1. Wear Protective Gear – Always use gloves, safety goggles, and acid-resistant clothing to avoid contact with skin or eyes.
2. Work in a Well-Ventilated Area – Phosphoric acid fumes can be harmful if inhaled, so ensure proper ventilation.
3. Use Proper Containers – Store the acid in containers made from materials resistant to corrosion, such as polyethylene or glass.
4. Proper Disposal – Dispose of any waste phosphoric acid according to local regulations to avoid environmental harm.

Applications of 85% Phosphoric Acid

The high concentration of 85% phosphoric acid makes it suitable for several industrial applications, including:

1. Fertilizers – It is used to produce phosphate fertilizers, which are essential for plant growth.
2. Food Additive – Phosphoric acid is used in the food industry as an acidifier in soft drinks and jams.
3. Cleaning Agents – It is used in the formulation of cleaning products, particularly for removing rust and hard water stains.
4. Chemical Manufacturing – Phosphoric acid is a precursor for many chemicals and is often used in labs for research and production.

Final Thoughts on the Density of 85% Phosphoric Acid

What is the density of 85 phosphoric acid? To recap, it is 1.685 g/mL at 20°C. This property makes it useful in various industries, from food production to agriculture. Accurate knowledge of its density helps professionals in chemical mixing, industrial processes, and safe handling.

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