Phosphoric acid is a mineral
acid with the chemical formula H
3PO
4. Its main uses are in fertilizers and detergents, and in cleaning and
rust-proofing agents. It is also used to acidify foods and beverages such as
cola. It is prepared by adding
sulphuric acid to calcium phosphate rock.
In its anhydrous form the acid is a white solid. In aqueous solution, the acid releases three hydronium (H+) ions.