1. a salt or ester containing multiple phosphate groups bonded together in a chain or ring structure
Usage: chemistry; commonly used in industrial and food applications

Examples

• Polyphosphates are widely used as food additives to improve texture and preserve moisture in processed meats.
• The detergent contained polyphosphate compounds that helped soften water and enhance cleaning power.
• Researchers studied how polyphosphates accumulate in aquatic ecosystems and affect water quality.
• Sodium polyphosphate is added to some beverages to prevent cloudiness and maintain clarity.
• The industrial process converts phosphoric acid into polyphosphate chains through heating.