Sodium dihydrogen orthophosphate dihydrate, also known as monosodium phosphate dihydrate, is a chemical compound with the formula NaH₂PO₄·2H₂O. It is a white, crystalline solid that is soluble in water. This compound is commonly used as a buffering agent, in baking powders, and as a laxative. Common Uses: Buffering Agent: Used to maintain a stable pH in solutions. Baking Powder: Contributes to the leavening action in some baking powders. Laxative: Can be used as a stimulant laxative before medical procedures. Food Additive: Used as a thickening agent and emulsifier. Molecular Biology and Biochemistry: Employed in the preparation of buffers for these fields. Other Names:Sodium phosphate monobasic dihydrate, Monosodium phosphate dihydrate, and Sodium biphosphate. UsesSodium dihydrogen orthophosphate dihydrate is a versatile compound used in various industries: Food Industry (E339): It acts as an emulsifier, pH control agent, nutrient enhancer, texture modifier, leavening agent, sequestrant, anticaking agent, acidulant, and stabilizer in various food products. Pharmaceutical Industry: It is used in drug formulations as a stabilizer and buffering agent, in electrolyte solutions, and as a laxative. Other Applications: Its uses extend to cleaning agents, dental products, laboratory applications, water treatment, agriculture (as a phosphorus source), and industrial processes like leather manufacturing.