Disodium phosphate

Disodium phosphate (pronounced di-SO-dee-um FOSS-fate) is an inorganic compound that is often used as a food additive. It is also known as disodium hydrogen phosphate, sodium phosphate dibasic, or E339, and is a salt of sodium and phosphate.

Etymology

The term "disodium phosphate" is derived from the Greek words "di", meaning "two", and "sodium", referring to the element sodium. "Phosphate" comes from the Greek "phosphoros", meaning "light-bringer", due to its presence in substances that glow in the dark.

Chemical Properties

Disodium phosphate is a white, crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water. It has the chemical formula Na2HPO4 and is commonly found in the dihydrate form, which includes two molecules of water for each molecule of disodium phosphate.

Uses

Disodium phosphate is used in a variety of applications. In the food industry, it is used as an emulsifier, buffering agent, and leavening agent. It is also used in the production of detergents and cleaning products, and as a laboratory reagent.

Health Effects

While disodium phosphate is generally recognized as safe for consumption in moderate amounts, excessive intake can lead to an imbalance of electrolytes in the body, potentially causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can also contribute to kidney damage in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions.

Related Terms

• Monosodium phosphate
• Trisodium phosphate
• Sodium dihydrogen phosphate
• Sodium monohydrogen phosphate

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Disodium phosphate
• Wikipedia's article - Disodium phosphate

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