Phosphoric acid: Molecular or ionic
taste the state of matter, there are molecules and ions, phosphoric acid, is it molecular or ionic? This is the question that chemistry students should investigate in detail.

Phosphoric acid, its chemical formula is $H_3PO_3 $. Looking at its structure, the central phosphorus atom is connected to three hydroxyl groups and one oxygen atom. Hydrogen and oxygen of the hydroxyl group are bound by covalent bonds, which are quite strong.

Molecular substances are mostly formed by covalent bonds connecting atoms. The bonds between atoms in phosphoric acid are mostly covalent bonds, which is a proof. When phosphoric acid is dissolved in water, although it can partially ionize hydrogen ions, the degree of ionization is limited, unlike typical ionic compounds, which are completely ionized in water. This is also a second symptom.

Furthermore, the physical properties of phosphoric acid, such as melting point and boiling point, are also consistent with the characteristics of molecular substances. Its melting point is not very high, which is due to the relatively weak intermolecular force, while non-ionic compounds are maintained by ionic bonds and have a high melting point state.

In summary, phosphoric acid is a molecular substance, and its molecular structure is constructed by covalent bonds. The characteristics of partial ionization in water and physical properties can be proved. The wonders of chemistry lie in the subtlety. Exploring the essence of matter can clarify its properties and make good use of it.