Which compound is a calcium phosphate salt found in alkaline urine?

Prepare for the CAMLPR Chemistry Test. Enhance your understanding with interactive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Boost your confidence and readiness for exam success!

Multiple Choice

Which compound is a calcium phosphate salt found in alkaline urine?

When urine is alkaline, phosphate is present mainly in the more deprotonated forms (like PO4^3−), which readily bind calcium ions to form calcium phosphate salts. These salts are poorly soluble and tend to precipitate, giving crystals or stones composed of calcium phosphate in alkaline urine. This pattern is why calcium phosphate is the salt associated with alkaline urine. Calcium carbonate isn’t the typical salt linked to alkaline urine, cholesterol has nothing to do with phosphate chemistry, and while amorphous phosphates can exist, the classic calcium-containing salt formed in this pH environment is calcium phosphate.

When urine is alkaline, phosphate is present mainly in the more deprotonated forms (like PO4^3−), which readily bind calcium ions to form calcium phosphate salts. These salts are poorly soluble and tend to precipitate, giving crystals or stones composed of calcium phosphate in alkaline urine. This pattern is why calcium phosphate is the salt associated with alkaline urine.

Calcium carbonate isn’t the typical salt linked to alkaline urine, cholesterol has nothing to do with phosphate chemistry, and while amorphous phosphates can exist, the classic calcium-containing salt formed in this pH environment is calcium phosphate.

More practice questions