AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Phosphorus is most commonly found in rock formations and ocean sediments as phosphate salts. Phosphate salts that are released from rocks through weathering usually dissolve in soil water and will be absorbed by plants.

Detailed explanation-2: -Phosphorus is found in the Earth’s crust, primarily in sedimentary rocks that contain phosphate (PO43-) minerals. As these rocks weather and erode, dissolved phosphates enter the soil and travel via rivers to the ocean.

Detailed explanation-3: -Phosphorite, phosphate rock or rock phosphate is a non-detrital sedimentary rock that contains high amounts of phosphate minerals. The phosphate content of phosphorite (or grade of phosphate rock) varies greatly, from 4% to 20% phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5).

Detailed explanation-4: -The phosphorus is obtained by mining deposits of rock phosphate. Locally produced sulfuric acid is used to convert the insoluble rock phosphate into a more soluble and usable form – a fertiliser product called superphosphate.

Detailed explanation-5: -Phosphate Rock is an excellent natural source of phosphorus, calcium and many essential trace elements. It contains over 30 percent total phosphate (3-8 percent available) and 48 percent calcium (as CaO). Phosphate rock has approximately one fifth the neutralizing power of lime.