What is the formula for hydrogen phosphate?

The formula for hydrogen phosphate is represented as HPO4 2-. This compound is a polyatomic ion that has a negative two charge, indicating that it has lost two protons (H+) compared to phosphoric acid (H3PO4). The presence of hydrogen in the formula signifies it is a hydrogen phosphate, distinguishing it from other phosphate species like dihydrogen phosphate (H2PO4-) and phosphate (PO4 3-).

Hydrogen phosphate plays an essential role in biological systems, particularly in energy transfer and storage, being a component of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and an important buffer in biological fluids. Its structure includes a phosphorus atom centrally located and bonded to four oxygen atoms, one of which is also bonded to a hydrogen atom, leading to its designation as hydrogen phosphate.

Understanding the correct chemical notation is crucial in chemistry, especially in biochemistry and related fields, where such ions are involved in many metabolic processes.