Gravimetric Analysis of Phosphorus in Plant Food

Flashcards covering the key concepts and vocabulary related to the gravimetric analysis of phosphorus in plant food.

Gravimetric Analysis

An analytical method to measure the mass of a precipitate to determine the amount of a component in a sample.

Mass Percent

Defined as (Component Mass / Total Sample Mass) x 100%.

P₂O5

Diphosphorus pentoxide, a compound analyzed in plant foods for phosphorus content.

NH4MgPO4-6H2O

Ammonium magnesium phosphate hexahydrate, a precipitate formed in the reaction during gravimetric analysis.

Struvite

The common name for NH4MgPO4-6H2O, known for its use in fertilizers and its association with kidney stones.

Hydroxide Ions

Ions generated by weak bases like ammonia; used to neutralize phosphoric acid in the reaction.

Epsom Salts

Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate (MgSO4-7H2O), used in the experiment to supply magnesium ions.

Vigorous Stirring

A method of agitating the mixture to facilitate the dissolution of plant food.

Vacuum Filtration

A technique for collecting precipitates by using a vacuum to reduce pressure and draw liquid through a filter.

Ammonia (NH3)

A weak base used in the reaction to convert phosphoric acid into monohydrogen phosphate ions.