Phosphomolybdic acid is the heteropolymetalate with the formula H 3Mo 12PO 40·12H₂O. It is a yellow solid, although even slightly impure samples have a greenish coloration.

What is Phosphomolybdate used for?

Phosphomolybdic is used as a stain for developing thin-layer chromatography plates, staining phenolics, hydrocarbon waxes, alkaloids, and steroids. Conjugated unsaturated compounds reduce PMA to molybdenum blue.

How do you dissolve phosphomolybdic acid?

Dissolve 5.0 g in 30 mL of water, make alkaline with ammonium hydroxide, and add 0.25 to 0.30 mL of bromine water. Boil for a few minutes, filter, wash the precipitate several times, and discard the filtrate and washings.