Question

Calcium phosphate used in the manufacturing of superphosphate is available in which form?

• A. Powdered phosphate rock
• B. Bone ash
• C. Both $A$ and $B$
• D. Liquid

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Both $A$ and $B$

As a mineral resource, “phosphate rock” is defined as unprocessed ore and processed concentrates that contain some form of apatite, a group of calcium phosphate minerals that is the primary source for phosphorus in phosphate fertilizers, which are vital to agriculture.

Bone ash is a white material produced by the calcination of bones. Typical bone ash consists of about 55.82% calcium oxide, 42.39% phosphorus pentoxide, and 1.79% water. The exact composition of these compounds varies upon the type of bones being used, but generally the formula for bone ash is: ${Ca}_5\left(OH\right){\left(P{O}_4\right)}_3$.